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ISSN 0250-4162
SCOPUS
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 9 (1/2) June 1985
SCOPUS
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Scopus 9 (1/2), June 1985
SCOPUS
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the next few months.
9) Tsavo East land-bird ecology
THE ECOLOGY OF THE LAND<-BIRDS OF TSAVO EAST
NATIONAL PARK, KENYA
Peter Lack
For the majority of land-bird species (indeed of all birds species)
occurring in East Africa all that is known about their habitat pref-
erences, seasonal occurrence and feeding ecology is what is contained
in the various handbooks (e.g. Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957, 1960),
and annotated check-lists (e.g. Britton 1980). A few groups have re-
ceived some more detailed attention: the birds of prey, by, for ex-
ample Brown (1966) and Smeenk (1974), and the Palaearctic migrants by
for example Pearson (1972), Britton (1974), Pearson & Backhurst (1976)
and Sinclair (1978). However, for the migrants, only Britton (1974)
did more than discuss the timing of movements. With a few notable
exceptions the rest of Africa is in a similar situation.
The seasonal occurrence and habitat preferences of all bird species
in Tsavo East National Park are mentioned very briefly by Lack, Leu-
thold & Smeenk (1980). The present paper serves to expand informa-
tion on these features of the ecology of the land-birds, excluding the
birds of prey, and provides the census figures on which the ecological
interpretations are based. Where there are sufficient data, some in-
formation on feeding ecology is also given.
One of the central tenets of competition theory is Gause "Ss comper—
itive exclusion principle where "complete competitors cannot coex-
ist" (Hardin 1960). Although there is currently considerable argu-
ment about the role of competition in structuring communities (e.g.
Cody 1974, several authors in Keast & Morton 1980) it is a conveni-
ent way of pointing to important aspects of the ecology of the var-
ious species. Consequently, discussion in this paper will concentrate
on differences between closely related species, with the species
grouped usually into families.
STUDY AREA
Tsavo East National Park is an area of about 13000 km’? lying between
about 80 and 150km inland from the Kenya coast. It is divided into
two parts by the Galana River. As with most previous work in the
Park, the vast majority of the data for this study were collected in
the part south of the river, and especially in the western half.
Climate
As in most parts of the tropics, Tsavo's seasons and climate are dom-
inated by the rainfall. There are usually two wet seasons and two dry
seasons each year. The so-called 'short' rains usually start during
the first half of November and last through December. There is then
the short dry season until late March, the 'long' rains during April,
and from mid May to the end of October the long dry season. On average
about half the annual total of rainfall falls in each wet season
Scopus 9: 2-23, June 1985
Tsavo East land-bird ecology S
(total varies from about 250 mm/yr at Aruba and to the east, to about
500 mm/yr on the west side near Voi) although in both years of this
study, 1975 and 1976, the April rains were very poor. This feature
may not be particularly unusual as, contrary to much of the rest of
Kenya, the 'short' rains in the Tsavo area have been shown mathematic-
ally to be more reliable and predictable (Tyrell & Coe 1974).
The two dry seasons differ slightly in that during the long dry sea-
son the sky is more often overcast, the temperature is about 5°C
cooler and there is a much stronger wind. In 1976 too this dry sea-
son was broken by a total of 50 - 100mm of rain over a few days in
early September. For more details of the temporal and spatial fea-
tures of the climate see Cobb (1976), Leuthold (1977) or Lack (1980,
1983) .:
The habitats
A major scheme for classifying East African habitats was proposed by
Pratt, Greenway & Gwynne (1966), and this was used in the present
study as a basis for defining the habitats in Tsavo East. The Park
falls into Pratt et al.'s ecological zone V which is characterized by
a semi-arid climate with the "woody vegetation dominated by Commiphora
and Acacia and allied genera often of shrubby habit" (Pratt et al.
1966, p. 371). Within this zone, Pratt et al. designated physiognomic
types based on canopy cover of woody vegetation. The authors were
mainly concerned with rangeland, and hence the amount of grass, and
chose their critical values of canopy cover of woody vegetation at 2
per cent and 20 per cent. For birds the woody vegetation is a more
important factor than grass, especially at low canopy cover. Critical
values were chosen, therefore, at 1 per cent and 10 per cent canopy
cover to define six main habitat types as follows: Grassland (G) less
than i per cent trees, less than 1 per cent bushes; Bushed Grassland
(BG) less than 1 per cent trees, 1 - 10 per cent bushes; Wooded and
Bushed Grassland (WBG) 1 - 10 per cent trees, 1 - 10 per cent bushes;
Bushland (B) less than 1 per cent trees, more than 10 per cent bushes;
Wooded Bushland (WB) 1 - 10 per cent trees, more than 10 per cent
bushes; Woodland (W) more than 10 per cent trees, variable, but usual-
ly more than 10 per cent bushes. A seventh habitat type was also de-
fined - the small area of Riverine forest (R) along the Voi River ex-
tending to about 15km east into the Park from Voi. The first five of
these habitats (G, BG, WBG, B, WB) are referred to collectively as the
Park savanna habitats (PSH).
When the Park was gazetted in 1948 the dominant vegetation type was
Woodland (Napier Bax & Sheldrick 1963). This habitat is not now found
in the southern area of the Park although it remains in areas just
outside to the south and west near Voi and in parts of the northern
area. The habitat type is dominated by Commiphora spp. (mainly C.
africana) and Acacia spp. with a canopy at 7 - 8m. The bush layer
varies from very open to nearly impenetrable thickets, with Grewia
spp. and Sansevieria spp. prominent. In the Park grasses are usually
Sparse or absent due partly to heavy grazing by wild mammals or, es-
pecially outside the Park, by domestic animals.
4 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
The most common habitats now inside the Park are Bushed Grassland
and Wooded and Bushed Grassland. Together, these cover nearly three-
quarters of the total area. The two thicker habitats, Bushland and
Wooded Bushland, are mainly in the western part, and Grassland is
rare. This radical change in habitat type over the last 35 years has
been brought about particularly by fires and elephants. These changes
have also resulted in changes in the species composition of the veg-
etation. Commiphora and Acacia are now almost absent and the main
trees are Melia volkensii, Delonix elata and Platycelyphium voense.
The bush layer is now dominated by Premna and Sericocompsis. With
the opening up of the woody vegetation grasses of several species have
greatly increased and are now a prominent feature of the habitat in
many places.
The Riverine forest is rarely more than 150m wide and has a nearly
closed canopy at about 20m, consisting especially of Newtonia hilde-
brandtii, Dobera glabra, Ficus spp. and Acacia spp. In most places
there is a very dense bush layer. Grasses are very thick and matted
around the edges, but sparse in the forest itself.
There are very few sources of permanent water in the Park. The main
ones are the Athi, Tsavo and Galana Rivers, Aruba Dam, and some pools
in the upper reaches of the Tiva River in the northern area. Minor
sources include a few artificially enlarged waterholes near the Voi
River, and a few pools in the tributaries of the Galana. This lack of
water considerably restricts the distribution of most mammals in the
dry season, and perhaps a few birds. In the wet season the situation
Changes drastically. Seasonal rivers start to flow, the most import-
ant being the Voi and the Tiva, and numerous shallow pans fill and
hold water for varying periods; the majority of these pans are dry by
a month after the last rain.
Food supplies and their seasonal variation
There were five main food types used by the land-birds in the Park:
fruit, nectar, grass seeds, arthropods (mainly insects) and small
vertebrates. The last of these was unimportant for any except birds
of prey, which are not considered here in any detail.
The relative abundance of nectar, fruits, seeds and arthropods was
measured through the year in 1976. How typical this year was is un-
known in detail. The data for Commiphora woodland agree broadly with
those given by Fenner (1983) for fruit and flowers, and the seasonal
occurrence of the rain was as usual in 1976, although the amounts were
below average.
Nectar was important only for the sunbirds Nectariniidae. In Woodland
and Riverine, flowers of a variety of woody plants were visited, and
there was no very obvious seasonal pattern in the occurrence of
flowers. In the Park Savanna Habitats only Delonix elata and Platy-
celyphium voense produced flowers that were visited at all regularly.
D.elata produced flowers at the end of both wet seasons and P. voense
only in late March just before the April rains.
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 5
Rather few fruits seemed to be important in the diet of birds and
there were three main seasonal patterns:
1. Grewia bicolor in Woodland, and Premna spp. in the Park savanna
habitats produced fruits in the later parts of both wet seasons.
2. Some Commiphora spp. fruits (in Woodland only) were available all
the year but there was a major peak in the abundance from July to
September. Salvadora persica, only occurring in or near Riverine,
had fruited only in July and August with none available at other
times.
3. Ficus spp. (in Riverine only) appeared to fruit at any season
although it is not known whether or not there were always one or
more trees in fruit.
Some other fruits were eaten by birds, particularly in Woodland.
Some fruits were probably available there all the year although there
were probably more of species other than Commiphora in the wet season.
The major peak of fruit abundance in Woodland was certainly between
July and September, due to the Commiphora.
Grass seeds on stems showed a major peak in abundance in January and
February (the two months following the 'short' rains) with smaller
peaks following the poor 'long' rains (June) and any unseasonal rain,
e.g. some seeds appeared in mid to late October following the rain in
September 1976. The abundance of seeds on the ground was not measured
but the peaks are likely to have been slightly later. The only period
when they would not be available is likely to have been the first
month of each wet season, due to germination. The effect found by
Thiollay (1971) of grass cover hiding seeds on the ground is not im-
portant in Tsavo as the grass cover is rarely very high, due both to
a lower total rainfall and the high grazing pressure.
The seasonal abundance of arthropods will be described in more de-
tail elsewhere (Lack & Cockerell in prep.). By using pitfall traps
and sweep-netting, arthropod biomass on the ground and in the grass
layer vegetation repectively were found to increase by a factor of
five or six in the December wet season compared with the dry season.
By March the abundance in both had declined to their October levels.
There was another increase in response to the April rains, but in 1976
this peak was lower than the December one. In years with more rain in
April it may be larger.
The abundance of arthropods in the woody vegetation was not measured.
In a similar area of Senegal, Morel (1968) found factors of 17 and 60
in two years for the biomass in the wet season compared with the pre-
ceding dry season. He did not, however, assess arthropods in the
bark, only those on the leaves, so the difference between wet and dry
seasons is considerably exaggerated.
METHODS
Censuses
The most important data for this study were the numbers of birds in
6 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
the various habitats in the different seasons. For this censuses were
conducted which gave a relative abundance figure based on the numbers
seen per unit time. All censuses were in units of 15min, and the
habitats were censused approximately in the proportion that each oc-
curred in the whole area. The study period was divided into 25 cal-
endar months from December 1974 to December 1976 inclusive, and the
length of time spent. censusing in each habitat in each month is given
in Table 1.
TABLE 1
Number of 15-min censuses carried out in each habitat in each month
Habitat
Voom menehs G BG WBG B WB W R Total
1974: December 9 15 34 5 Li. "Qt 13 116
1975: January ili 32 28 19 2-29 T7 i Bsye)
February 12 59 a2 18 ne Ve” 13 174
March 9 2 27 dn3 13, 23 7 113
April ig 40 38 16 1 3}.4:26 11 155
May 8 2 38 9 25: pets 11 134
June 12 3\3) 33 21 13 2226 qj 150
July 7 22 28 15 10,3019 8 109
August 5 15 Sul 7 24, Eales 8 103
September 10 34 36 22 1A. 22 7 142
October 8 35 34 16 pe ee lr! 6 126
November 12 251 36 21 14 26 8 144
December 5 5 18 8 10 S49 8 73
1976: January q 20 le, 12 S “26 8 98
February 4 72 #2 6 8.473 i 62
March 2 22 38 10 233 27 7 129
April 6 29 12 13 2935530 7 126
May 9 19 24 10 Sis eee 12 29
June 2 17 26 10 62 6 Te,
July 4 20 21 13 28 34 10 130
August 4 18 24 3 LAO 6 #2
September 2 22 12 4 4-95 6 65
October S) 14 34 if 7 he 6 89
November 4 23 30 6 10% 87 7) a7
December 0 4 18 1 1 ote 7 49
Totals 168 582 681 285 346 515 213 2790
Key: G = Grassland, BG = Bushed Grassland, WBG =
Grassland, B = Bushland, WB = Wooded Bushland, W
R = Riverine
Wooded and Bushed
= Woodland,
In censuses all birds seen and identified were counted while those
only seen flying over were recorded separately. In addition, a list of
Tsavo East land-bird ecology
species that were only heard was made. All censuses were conducted be-
tween sunrise and 11:00.
The 15-min units were walked to the following patterns:
1. All Park savanna habitats: censuses were carried out at 1- or
2-km intervals along Park roads with the first one of a series taken
at the first change of the car's odometer after a fixed point,
usually a road junction. For the census itself the path walked
varied a little but was usually a complete semi-circle (i.e. in-
cluding the diameter which was the road) of radius about 150m. This
gives the area sampled in the 15min as approximately 8ha.
2. Woodland: almost all censuses were carried out while walking
along existing paths, dividing these into 15-min units.
3. Riverine: due to the nature of the habitat a variety of methods
was used. Where possible, and not potentially too dangerous, the
author walked along the edge of, or through, sections of the forest
in units of 15min. In several cases, however, the counts were made
while standing more or less stationary at one point.
The biggest problem with all comparisons of censuses is that of bird
conspicuousness. In this study potential difficulties come under
three headings:
1. Comparing species: the most important comparisons are between
closely related species. These are usually similar in such charac-
teristics as behaviour, amount of noise, bright colours, and are
hence conspicuous to a similar degree.
2. Comparing seasons: in Tsavo there are in effect two seasons - wet
and dry. In the wet season the leaves make all habitats more diffi-
cult to see through. Hence caution has to be exercised when a bird.
is apparently more common in the dry season.
3. Comparing habitats: those habitats with more vegetation are more
difficult to see through than more open ones. Hence only the fig-
ures for those birds apparently more common in the open habitats
need concern us. As will be seen, many more species show an increase
in the denser habitats, and for those predominantly in the open
there is usually general evidence from the literature and from feed-
ing habits that they do indeed prefer them.
No corrections have been made for differing conspicuousness, large-
ly because any would be very arbitary. Differences certainly exist
and may affect the fine detail of some of the figures presented here,
but they do not affect the gross differences or arguments to be pre-
sented.
Feeding behaviour
During censuses and at other times observations of birds seen feeding
were recorded. Data collected included the type of food where it was
possible to identify this from observations; whence and how the food
was obtained; activity of the bird (perched, flying, etc.); position
in the vegetation and/or position before and after the feeding move-
8 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
ment, amplified by recording the hgight of the vegetation and the
height of the bird in it and the horizontal position of the bird in
the vegetation - if the bird was feeding in the woody vegetation it
was assigned to the edge (up to 0.2m into the vegetation), just in-
side (c. 0.2 - 1.0m in), or inside (more than im in) - these three
categories correspond roughly with the terminal twigs, larger twigs,
and branches (including the trunk) respectively. The feeding rate was
also recorded for birds which fed by sitting and waiting on perches
and then flying out, either to catch insects in the air or on the
ground, and sometimes the feeding rate was determined by watching in-
dividual’ birds for up to 15min:
It was often difficult (and would sometimes be misleading) to count
the number of individual food items eaten. When a bird was 'seen
feeding' at a site it was scored five items. However, when calcu-
lating vertical and horizontal position in the vegetation, only one
figure per bird was scored - for horizontal the predominate one, for
vertical the mean.
THE LAND-BIRDS
Lack et al. (1980) have recorded 324 species of land-birds in Tsavo
East. About half of these have been seen too rarely for any quantit-
ative analyses and only the more common species are considered here in
detail. A list of the others recorded is given at the end of each
section. For brief details of the status and records of these, and
the common species, see Lack et al. (1980). Data on relative abun-
dance of birds in each habitat are given in Table 2 and for each month
in Table 3. All bird nomenclature follows Britton (1980).
Ostrich Struthionidae
From an ecological viewpoint the Ostrich Struthio camelus can be
classed as a large herbivorous mammal, and Cobb (1976) included it in
his survey of these. Cobb found, from aerial surveys, that it was
primarily an open country species although the race in Tsavo East, the
Somali Ostrich S.c. molybdophanes, is tolerant of thicker scrub than
the other race occurring in Kenya, massaicus. The Somali race is
also thought to be more of a browser than other races (Mackworth-Praed
&iGrante1g57)e.
Gamebirds Phasianidae, Guineafowl Numididae
Two common Francolinus species, the Yellow-necked Spurfowl F. leuco-
scepus and the Crested Francolin F. sephaena, were both present all
the year although the Yellow-necked Spurfowl was a little more obvi-
ous in the wet seasons, perhaps because it was more vocal then. Both
species preferred the thicker habitats, with the Yellow-necked Spur-
fowl primarily in Riverine and Wooded Bushland, and the Crested Fran-
colin primarily in Woodland. The Helmeted Guineafowl Numida mele-
agris also occurred rarely in the thicker habitats, especially Wood-
land. The very few of all three species seen feeding fed entirely
from the ground. Swank (1977) analysed stomach contents of all three
in Mkomasi Reserve just to the south of Tsavo West, in Tanzania. He
found all three to be primarily vegetarian although insects, especial-
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 9
ly termites, formed 25 - 30 per cent of the diet of the two Franco-
linus and 10 per cent for the Helmeted Guineafowl.
The final common species of these two families, the Harlequin Quail
Coturnix delegorguei, is totally different from the other three. It is
much smaller and it occurred mainly in the open habitats although
always where there was a high grass cover. Also, in contrast to the
others, it is highly migratory. It was present in very large numbers
in December and January when the grass cover was highest and a few
were seen in October and November and between February and May. It is
well-known as a migrant and apparently breeds opportunistically when
conditions are favourable (Britton 1980). As far as is known it feeds
almost entirely on grass seeds taken from the ground.
Other species recorded: Hildebrandt's Francolin F. hildebrandti,
Kenya Crested Guineafowl Guttera pucherani, Vulturine Guineafowl
Acryllium vulturinum.
Button Quails Turnicidae
The Quail Plover Ortyxelos meiffreni was probably much commoner than
it appeared from censuses as the majority were only seen when flushed
at very close range. It occurred in all Park savanna habitats though
it was not seen in areas with a grass cover of less than about 25 per
cent. It was not seen in Woodland and it is probably a species which
has moved into the area with the opening up of the habitat (Lack
1975). As far as is known it eats grass seeds.
Other species recorded: Button Quail Turnix sylvatica.
Bustards Otididae
The only common species was the Buff-crested Bustard Eupodotis rufi-
crista. It was a common resident in all habitats except Grassland and
Riverine. It was very secretive but called frequently. It was heard
in 52 per cent of all 15-min censuses so was certainly commoner than
sightings would suggest.
Other bustards recorded: Hartlaub's E. hartlaubii, White-bellied E.
senegalensis, Heuglin's Neotis heuglini, Kori Otis kori.
Plovers Charadriidae, Thicknees Burhinidae, Coursers Glareolidae
This group of long-legged insectivorous ground-dwelling species have
Similar ecology so are treated together. All may be at least part-
ially nocturnal, especially the Spotted Thicknee Burhinus capensis and
Heuglin's Courser Rhinoptilus cinctus. These two species, like the
Buff-crested Bustard, are very secretive by day and were usually seen
only when flushed at close range from the base of a bush. They had
Similar habitat preferences to the Buff-crested Bustard. The Spotted
Thicknee was probably not very common but it is likely that Heuglin's
Courser was much commoner than it appeared from censuses. The two
species presumably do not compete seriously with each other as the
thicknee is nearly four times the size of the courser. The next com-
monest courser, Temminck's Cursorius temminckii, was very much an open
country species. Although only rarely seen in censuses (Several were
seen at other times) it was seen much more often between May and Oc-
Continued on page 13
10 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
TABLE 2
The number of each species/10h in each habitat
Habitat
vs)
Species G BG WBG B WB W PSH Total
Yellow-necked Spurfowl
Crested Francolin
Harlequin Quail
Helmeted Guineafowl
Quail Plover
Buff-crested Bustard
White-bellied Bustard
Black-headed Plover
Crowned Plover |
Caspian Plover
Spotted Thicknee
Heuglin's Courser
Black-faced Sandgrouse
Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse
Red-eyed Dove ©
Ring-necked Dove
Laughing Dove 1
Namaqua Dove
Emerald-spotted Wood Dove
Orange-bellied Parrot
White-bellied Go-away Bird
Great Spotted Cuckoo
Black and White Cuckoo =
Eurasian/African Cuckoo -
Didric Cuckoo =
White-browed Coucal =
Speckled Mousebird =
Blue-naped Mousebird =
Striped Kingfisher x
Chestnut-bellied Kingfisher -
Eurasian Bee-eater =
Madagascar Bee-eater me
White-throated Bee-eater 2
Little Bee-eater =
Somali Bee-eater =
Eurasian Roller 8
1
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NO Re
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1OrPrpnorl OWONDrRrRAOARD YA He ND xX
(«exe eK
Lilac-breasted Roller
Rufous-crowned Roller
Broad-billed Roller -
Hoopoe =
Green Wood Hoopoe =
Abyssinian Scjmitar pipe © -
Grey Hornbill x
1 #xNOoOrK FM
'™%
™
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wWwuWreoat &* eK wl &
—
~
Continued opposite
Tsavo East land-bird ecology Ad
Table 2, continued
ee
Oo
ct
0)
Species G BG WBG B WB W R PSH
Red-billed Hornbill ~ 2
Von der Decken's Hornbill - x
Yellow-billed Hornbill - =
Brown-breasted Barbet - -
Black-throated Barbet - - ~
Spotted-flanked Barbet - -
Red-fronted Tinkerbird - ~
d'Arnaud's Barbet - x
Red and Yellow Barbet - 1
Greater Honeyguide = -
Lesser Honeyguide - -
Nubian Woodpecker ns 1
Cardinal Woodpecker = x=
Bearded Woodpecker -
I
t
(x*¥ OW
I
1%
—
Ww
~™HOr 1K WR I %
i ireerl*NnNoil i i$
™NWK KM WO
WrPRNMK MOM MO! OFA A
~rPeK KM MW I KR MK
Chestnut-backed Sparrow L'k 68 32 .
Chestnut-headed Sparrow L'k 77 52 4
Singing Bush Lark 5 3
Red-winged Bush Lark 44 15
Pink-breasted Lark #5" 555
Friedmann's Bush Lark x
Drongo 1 3
Black-headed Oriole = x
x
1
| ee |
| a |
wre
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NO
na
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a
1
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ass
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—
=
o)
—
oO
—
Golden Oriole =
Grey Tit =
Scaly Chatterer = =
Rufous Chatterer = =
Black Cuckoo Shrike = =
Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul = -
Northern Brownbul - -
Common Bulbul -
Rufous Bush Chat x
White-browed Scrub Robin -
Irania =
Sprosser
Rock Thrush
Isabelline Wheatear* {
!
ie *K Re OY
*
'
1%
1% OV
1 mor it
ITHOrRNBOWODWRPkRP UY WUD! WO
Northern Wheatear*
Pied Wheatear
Capped Wheatear
Bare-eyed Thrush
Marsh Warbler
Upcher's Warbler* { =
—
1'«xe kK HOM 1
=
1rerPNM NM OW ll
ieee DP DB M
lrmorrerenwnol *® nore I
10
10
(nore il
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1
1
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16]
Olivaceous Warbler* =
Continued overleaf
12 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
Table 2, continued
G BG WBG B WB W R PSH
|
oO
ct
0)
be
em
Willow Warbler
Garden Warbler =
Whitethroat 1
Barred Warbler -
Yellow-breasted Apalis =
Grey Wren Warbler =
Desert Cisticola 5
Ashy Cisticola 10
Tiny Cisticola =
Yellow-vented Eremomela
Red-fronted Warbler =
Northern Crombec =
Grey Flycatcher =
Spotted Flycatcher =
Black-headed Batis =
Chin-spot Batis =
Pygmy Batis =
Paradise Flycatcher = =
Pangani Longclaw 11 4
Golden Pipit 4 20
Black-backed Puffback = a
Slate-coloured Boubou = =
Grey-headed Bush Shrike = =
Brubru =
Rosy-patched Shrike x
Three-streaked Tchagra x
Black-headed Tchagra =
Long-tailed Fiscal =
Taita Fiscal 18
Red-backed Shrike x
Red-tailed Shrike 9
1
x
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Lesser Grey Shrike
White-crowned Shrike
Helmet Shrike
Retz's Helmet Shrike =
Violet-backed Starling = = =
Wattled Starling 6 £10 11
Blue-eared Glossy Starling - - -
RUuppell's Long-tailed
Glossy Starling = = = el 1 a a = x x
Red-winged Starling - - = = - 2 - oy x
Magpie Starling
Golden-breasted Starling
Fischer's Starling
Hildebrandt's Starling
—
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Continued opposite
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 13
Table 2, continued
G BG WBG. B WB W R PSH Total
Shelley's Starling = ges dy 2) OK = 1 1
Superb Starling x, elG 24 13 Aa 2 8 Pal 17
Red-billed Oxpecker 1 4 ea”? Bul 6 3 3
Collared Sunbird = = = = = = 3 - x
Eastern Violet-backed Sun'b - = iad xi 2 = x 1
Amethyst Sunbird = = = = iw ES = = x
Little Purple-banded Sun'b = x a= XO 1 x 1
Hunter's Sunbird - 2 Ae LETS 8 4 6
Abyssinian White-eye = = | a> Boh se 1 xX x
Red-billed Buffalo Weaver - 14 40 19 26' 15 18 24 22
White-headed Buffalo Weaver 1 11 415 19779 2 13 11
Parrot-billed Sparrow 1 2 A? oe 20” 23 33 13 12
Yellow-spotted Petronia 4 10 18 14 21 10 11 14 13
White-browed Sparrow Weaver - 1 a x i- 2 1 1
Black-capped Social Weaver = = - 9 - = = 1 1
Red-headed Weaver = = > i aoe 2 x x
Black-necked Weaver = = ma x 3 x 1
Masked Weaver = x x one x 2 x > 1
Black-headed Weaver = ns > ae CEES 1 1 x
Chestnut Weaver = 4 se ex x 99 = 1 3
Red-billed Quelea 46 80 144 11 6B 19 594 90 if is)
White-winged Widowbird = = 1 - = 6 x i
Fire-fronted Bishop = = 4 12 6 4 8 5 5
Pin-tailed Whydah = = - = ee 2 - x
Paradise Whydah - = 13 eet 13 5 4
Green-winged Pytilia ee | Wey: Sard 1 1 1
Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu = = x = x ex 10 x 1
Purple Grenadier - = = - i - me x
Crimson-rumped Waxbill = = 1 = = 2 x x
Grey-headed Silverbill = - = 1 2 - 1 1
Cut-throat 8 8 4 8 - 1 14 10
Somali Golden-breasted
Bunting = 2 BS 12 = 6 5
Yellow-rumped Seed-eater = = — = =) of x = x
Notes: Habitat abbreviations as in Table 1
x = less than 0.5 seen per 10h
* = not identified positively in the 1974/75 winter, and some
individuals not identified positively in the 1975/76 winter
but the figures are given to facilitate comparisons
Total = average of the figures for the eight different habitats.
tober (7 of 10 seen in censuses) than between November and April.
There are two large resident plovers, the Black-headed Vanellus tec-
tus and the Crowned V.coronatus. As can be seen from the figures,
Continued on page 19
Tsavo East land-bird ecology
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Tsavo East land-bird ecology
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Tsavo East land-bird ecology 19
ee ease ia bie | Continued from page 13
2 eee 4 icy. 1 there was a clear habitat difference
s between the two, with the Black-
Pe Sy im, SO 1 headed commonest in the thicker Park
& iz savanna habitats and the Crowned in
See ee Ene more open. — Pere was some over—
= lap, and in the overlap the Crowned,
ithe Sie ye! a ory subjectively, seemed to prefer areas
MS with more grass. The final common
ate, Sonicare a1 species, the Palaearctic Caspian
he ag Plover Charadrius asiaticus, only
ewer jor Kream 1 hatleeaene: Size (om he sewo, resident
a plovers, was virtually confined to
> eh, ea Pek rit Sets very open areas, especially those
2 almost devoid of grass to the south
el A ey a 4 ang. case of Aruba. | Et was seen be-
6 tween early September and early
sre) yk tn 4 April, usually in small flocks. Most
a appeared to be on passage. That only
soy Lactate ee few were seen in censuses is mainly
EI a reflection of its restricted habi-
Pct pose fo tr x tate pre Ferences:
)
5
All these species were only seen
feeding from the ground taking in-
sects, and all seemed to favour bare
ground.
Other species recorded: Senegal
Plover Vanellus lugubris, Cream-
coloured Courser Cursorius cursor,
Two-banded Courser Rhinoptilus afri-
canus, Violet-tipped Courser R. chal-
copterus, and ten plover species, one
thicknee and one pratincole, all of
which are mainly waterside birds.
Sandgrouse Pteroclidae, Pigeons
Columbidae
(25)
Grey-headed Silverbill (56)
Cut-throat (702)
There is some argument about the tax-
onomic relationships of these two
families but as their ecological re-
quirements are similar, they are con-
Sidered together.
The six common species fall into
three pairs based on body size. Of
the large pair the Black-faced Sand-
grouse Pterocles decoratus was very
common throughout the year in all
Park savanna habitats where there was
Note: conventions as in Table 2 (where applicable); the figure after each bird's name is the total
number recorded on censuses
Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu (59)
Somali Golden-breasted Bunting (353)
Yellow-rumped Seed-eater (17)
Green-winged Pytilia (85)
Purple Grenadier (21)
Table 3, continued
Crimson-rumped Waxbill
20 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
woody vegetation. It was very rare in Woodland and Riverine. Despite
its need to drink every day its distribution in the southern part of
Tsavo East did not seem to be restricted in the dry season. Sandgrouse
are known to move quite long distances daily for water, e.g. P. namaqua
goes up to 80 km each way in the Kalahari (McLean 1968). As far as is
known, in common with other sandgrouse, the Black-faced is entirely
granivorous throughout its life, taking small seeds from the ground.
The other large species, the Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata
was also a resident but had totally contrasting habitat preferences.
It was common in Woodland and Riverine but was nearly absent from all
Park savanna habitats. It seemed to be much more arboreal than any
others in these families and, although there was. only one record of it
eating fruit in the present study - on the bush Salvadora persica - it
is suspected that it was rather more of a frugivore than a granivore.
All the handbooks say it is entirely granivorous although Goodwin
(1967) adds "it does also eat berries in trees". It was, however,
entirely a frugivore at Lamto, Ivory Coast (Thiollay 1971).
The pair of small doves, the Namaqua Oena capensis and Emerald-
spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos, had similar habitat preferences
to the Black-faced Sandgrouse and Red-eyed Dove respectively, and
hence were very different from each other. The wood dove was more
widespread in the Park savanna habitats than the Red-eyed Dove, per-
haps because it feeds entirely on seeds on the ground, particularly
among the litter. It was a resident. The Namaqua Dove is, as far as
is known, entirely granivorous but was seasonal in its occurrence in
the Park. It was absent in the long dry season, increased sharply in
the 'short' rains, and then remained in steadily reducing numbers un-
til about mid June. Where it goes between June and November is un-
known. Britton (1980) and Curry-Lindahl (1981) say that only local
movements occur but, in common with many other species, the movements
appear to be much more regular and substantial.
The middle-sized pair, the Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola
and the Laughing Dove S. senegalensis, were both fairly common in all
habitats although statistically their preferences were different (xX? =
63, with df 6, P<0.001). However, their patterns of seasonal occur-
rence were different. The Ring-necked Dove was common in all habit-
ats throughout the year (Fig. 1) although there was a slight increase
in numbers in the wet seasons, especially in January. The Laughing
Dove, by contrast, was only present in small numbers for most of the
year and these were almost all in Woodland or near water. In Decem-
ber and January very large numbers came in to all habitats (Fig. 1).
These birds were coming into Tsavo to breed. Both species seemed to
be entirely granivorous, taking seeds from the ground. In Botswana,
Irving & Beesley (1976) found that, in grain crops, the Ring-necked
fed mainly from the heads of the standing corn and the Laughing Dove
fed mainly from the ground. This difference did not appear to hold
in Tsavo.
The Laughing Dove is regarded as migratory in several other parts of
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 21
Fig. 1. The habitat pref-
20 a) erences of two Streptopel-
| ia doves: a) Ring-necked
S.capicola February to
10 November, b) Ring-necked
December and January,
c) Laughing Dove S. sen-
egalensis February to No-
vember, d) Laughing Dove
December and January.
20 (b) Habitat abbreviations as
in Table l.
Yn
i=
3 10
oS
So
a
o
40
5 20
120
80
: ne
BG WBG
Africa although it is often, as in Tsavo, partially resident. It oc-
curs only after good rains in the Kalahari (McLean 1970). In Zambia
largest numbers occur between April and November which is the dry
season there, and there are evidently more birds after poor rains
(Benson et al. 1973). This is, of course, the period they are absent
from Tsavo, and although Benson et al. think that the influx to Zam-
bia is from the south, they give little evidence to support this
suggestion. The Tsavo birds might go to Zambia, but there is really
too little documentation of the movements in other areas to be sure.
Other species recorded: Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exust-
us, Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea, Mourning Dove Streptopelia de-
cipiens, Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria and Green Pigeon Treron
australis.
Parrots Psittacidae
The Orange-bellied Parrot Poicephalus rufiventris was the only parrot
species recorded in Tsavo East. It was fairly common, and resident,
in Woodland and Riverine and a few were recorded in Wooded Bushland.
All parrots seen feeding (43 birds) were eating fruit except for one
22 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
eating leaves and one probably flowers. The species took fruit from
both bushes (10 birds) and trees (33 birds) and took some of the large
fruit, e.g. Commiphora boiviniana in addition to the commoner small
C. africana, and others.
Turacos Musophagidae
The White-bellied Go-away Bird Corythaixoides leucogaster was a common
resident in Woodland with a very few in Wooded Bushland and in trees
along riverine fringes. It was, however, not seen in the Voi River
forest.
As it is a shy bird very few feeding data were obtained, but it
seemed to be largely a fruit eater (8 of 12 birds seen feeding, and 3
of the other 4 were eating Acacia mellifera flowers on one day).
Other species recorded: Violet-crested Turaco Tauraco porphyreolophus.
Cuckoos Cuculidae
None of the eleven species recorded was common, although only two can
be considered rare, the Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus and the
Yellowbill Ceuthmochares aereus. Three others were seen only very
rarely but were heard regularly in the wet seasons: the Black Cuckoo
Cuculus clamosus, Red-chested Cuckoo C. solitarius and Klaas' Cuckoo
Chrysococcyx klaas. All three were almost restricted to Woodland. The
first two are probably migratory, being present from November to Jan-
uary and April. Only three Klaas' Cuckoos were seen in censuses, and
one was in each of June and July, suggesting that it may be partially
resident.
The only other species which can be seen all the year (despite the
data in Table 3) is the White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus.
It was, however, much commoner in the wet seasons. It occurred fair-
ly commonly in thick bushes, especially along rivers and small water-
courses, although it retreated to the main rivers in the dry season.
All four food items seen taken were large insects from the ground.
The other species were all wet season visitors only. All occurred
in both wet seasons although all were commoner in December and Jan-
uary than in April. The Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius
occurred wherever there were trees, especially in Wooded and Bushed
Grassland. It has bred in Tsavo East (Trevor & Lack 1976) but
whether the birds involved are all of Afrotropical provenance or in-
clude some which have bred in the Palaearctic is unknown. The Black
and White Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus is a little smaller than the Great
Spotted but was more common. It was usually seen low down in bushes
(none of the 13 food items taken was higher than 1m up in the veg-
etation) but it was nevertheless commoner in habitats with trees (WBG,
WB, W and R) (x?=14, with df 1, P<0.01). There is a breeding record
of this species too (Turner 1977), which suggests that some at least
are of African origin. However, East African birds are thought to be
largely migrants from the Indian subcontinent (Friedmann 1964).
The one common small species, the Didric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cap=-
rius was the commonest cuckoo of all. It occurred in all habitats
Tsavo East land-bird ecology a3
except Grassland but was commoner in those with trees (x?=18, with df
1, P<0O.01). Like the Black and White Cuckoo the Didric also apparent-
ly fed mainly in the bushes (6 of 7 birds seen feeding).
The final two species are often considered to be races of one and
often they were not distinguished in this study: the African Cuckoo
Cuculus gularis and the Eurasian Cuckoo C.canorus. Both occurred and
the latter was probably the commoner. The two species combined were
also commonest in habitats with trees, though both differ from other
cuckoos in being seen in trees rather than bushes.
All sightings of food taken were of insects, mostly quite large
ones.
-Mousebirds Coliidae
The Blue-naped Mousebird Urocolius macrourus was a resident, although
it was seen more often at times when Commiphora africana and Salva-
dora persica were fruiting (July to September and not the whole dry
season). It was seen to eat fruits of both species extensively. It
was commonest in Riverine but was more widespread than the Speckled
Mousebird Colius striatus and occurred fairly commonly wherever there
was woody vegetation. The Speckled Mousebird, also a resident, was
almost confined to Riverine.
Both species were recorded only eating fruit, and both appeared to
eat whichever was available at the time. The majority of sightings of
both species were of birds in bushes, not trees (Blue-naped 67 of 78
birds and Speckled 11 of 15 birds). Despite the dominance of Riverine
in their habitat preferences, neither was recorded eating Ficus spp.
ETaUts .
Other species recorded: White-headed Mousebird Colius leucocephalus.
[to be continued]
24 Observations from northwest Somalia
BIRD OBSERVATIONS FROM NORTHWEST SOMALIA
G. Clarke
Following the publication of the Birds of Somalia by J.S. Ash and J.E.
Miskell (1983) - hereafter referred to as A&M - and subsequent cor-
respondence with Dr Ash, it seems desirable to publish some notes
based on my stay in northwest Somalia (ex-British Somaliland Protect-
orate) during the periods October 1955 to 26 January 1957, and from
1 December 1957 to 3 January 1959. The actual date of arrival in
Somaliland was in late August 1953 but little ornithological work was
done until October 1955 when both volumes of Mackworth-Praed & Grant
(1952, 1955) became available. Only data which supplement the infor-
mation in A&M are given here.
I was based at Hargeisa’for the majority of the time, so that this
district received the most attention, with only considerably shorter
periods elsewhere. October 1955 was spent at Adadleh; the last fort-
night of May 1956 at Erigavo; October 1956 at Dubur, Sheikh; and some
time was also spent at Burao.. Many trips, both on duty and for pleas-
ure, were made into the surrounding bush, mostly within 80km. At
weekends and on holidays longer runs were made, allowing places fur-
ther afield to be visited. Berbera was visited annually during the
winter, and an opportunity was twice taken to visit Sebawanak, in
March and December 1958. The last week of May 1958 was spent at Zei-
la, when the island of Saad Din was visited.
The results of this study were originally written up in 1968, but
remained unpublished except for the abstraction of notes on 19 species
in Baird (1979). For the present paper they have been completely re-
worked into atlas form to follow that of A&M, which is based upon the
4; x 45 degree square. This treatment has provided data from 22 such
squares (Table 2).
During the study 311 species were identified; of which 65 were found
to be in some stage of the breeding cycle. Altogether 298 squares for
173 species are additional to those given by A&M, and a further 17
squares for 13 species are available from other sources (Table 1). In
addition to the new square data, some species are also commented upon,
providing breeding, migrational and/or distributional information.
Table 1
Summary of species/squares
a a a ET NI I EI I IPR LE ET I TI IE TT I EI EL LOLI LEE LATE)
Species Squares Breeding species squares
311 1165 65 80 Total recorded in study
173 2930 53 63 Additional records
18) 17 2 2 Additions (other sources)
186 a5 55 65 Total additional r
1Co-ordinates for all localities are listed in Appendix A
Scopus 9: 24-42, June 1985
Observations from northwest Somalia 25
For accounts of the topography, climate, habitat and status, see A&M.
ORDER AND NOMENCLATURE
The order and nomenclature followed is that used by A&M, as is the
method of presenting the data, and their sequential species number is
followed by the scientific and English names. Those species for
which there are ten or less records are suffixed by an asterisk. The
Mackworth-Praed & Grant numbers are given after the English names.
The additional square information follows at the end of the note, ex-
cept for those species for which additional comments only are made.
SOURCE OF DATA
The material of this study is taken from approximately 4000 separ-
ately recorded observations, mostly on those species seen infrequently
such as migrants, raptors (except the common Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax)
and breeding species. Few definite searches were made for nests as it
was found that disturbance, especially of small species, usually ended
with predation.
A number of birds were collected, especially in 1958, taking those
which appeared to be new to the country; and most of them were sent to
Mr J.G. Williams at the (now) National Museum, Nairobi. A few were
also sent to the British Museum (Nat. Hist.), London. Mr A.R. Tribe
of the Government Forestry Department kindly allowed me access to part
of his collection, and some of his specimens are included below.
DISTRIBUTION
The 22 4 x *% degree squares visited in the course of the study are
listed below, together with the number of species recorded in each
(Table 2). This reflects the amount of effort which was given to each
square, but no conscious effort was made to collect atlas data on bird
distribution. Rather, the object was to visit those places known to
produce interesting and different birds; for example the coast, mount-
ains, the great open plains, and by no means least, the riverine wood-
land systems.
Table 2
Species/square distribution
LINo. 2c 9a 10a 10c 10d lic 13a 13b 18a 18b 18d 19a 19b 19c 19€
Meummeesae 56! 49 9 14 136 70 20 90 110 51 196 105. 35° 8
CINo. 20a 20b 20c 20d 26a 27b 28b
No. of spp. fOREAGAT BO NGA 2 1 1
Total species/squares = 1165
As can be seen from these erratic results, much remained to be done.
26 Observations from northwest Somalia
SPECIES ACCOUNTS
1. Struthio camelus molybdophanes Ostrich 1. Frequently seen with some
usually solitary males penetrating thicker bushland. 18ab, 19a, 20ac.
Breeding: nests were not found, but larger flocks were usually com-
prised of young birds with a few adults in attendance. Eggs were
brought into Hargeisa and Burao for sale.
2. Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe 4. Opportunistic, colonizing
quite small freshwater pools. 1llc. Breeding: 11ic, at Bihendula on
28 Dec 1958, when a pair with two chicks was seen.
10. Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican 31. Two records only: 20 at
Zeila on 28/29 May 1958 and 2 at Sebawanak on 14 Dec 1958 (previously
reported in Baird (1979)). 2c.
20. Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern 50. A female, presumably of the
nominate race, was found alive at Burao on 14 Sep 1956 in a damaged
and partly opened box of stores which had been received the previous
day from Berbera. The bird was released at Bihendula three days
Later.) 7) 20br
22. Ardea cinerea Grey Heron 33. 2c.
28. Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 42. One at Berbera on 12 Jan 1957 and
4 at Sebawanak on 14 Dec 1958. Also 2 at Borama on 5 Oct 1958, re-
ported by Mrs M. Gregor (pers. comm.). 10a, 18a.
29. Butorides striatus Green-backed Heron 45. One, probably of the
race atricapiijusion, 24 Aug) 195enae Bayo Daten ego
30. Egretta alba Great White Egret 37. One 23 - 26 Dec 1956 at Ber-
bera. ile: )Thel first, record north of 4°N-
32. Egretta garzetta Little Egret 40. llc.
33. Egretta gularis African Reef Heron 41. 10a.
38. Ciconia abdimii Abdim's Stork 58. Irregular passage migrant
through squares 18abd, 19abcd and 20abcd. One at Eik in late Jun 1958
(H. Playfair pers. comm.) and 200+ at Borama on 29 Jun 1958 (A.R. Tribe
pers..comm.)); ~lSal, 19a," 27a.
42. Leptoptilos crumeniferus Marabou 61. Rarely recorded by Archer &
Godman (1937) except in squares 2 and 9. Present from Jun to Sep with
210 at Hargeisa in Aug. One Dec record of a possibly sick bird. 18b,
19b, 20a.
43. Mycteria ibis Yellow-billed Stork 62. Maximum 4. 10a.
47. Threskiornis aethiopica Sacred Ibis 63. 2c, lic, 20b.
49. Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill 69. 10a.
50. Phoeniconaias minor Lesser Flamingo* 72. One at Sebawanak on 10
Mar 1958, feeding apart from 25 Greater Flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber
of which it was about half the size, with the general colour a much
deeper pink, and the deep red bill having a black tip. This species
Observations from northwest Somalia P15
was subsequently recorded in some numbers on the north side of the
Gulf at Aden by Ennion (1962) and Clarke (1967). This is the first
published record for Somalia, referred to without detail by A&M.
56. Anas clypeata Shoveler* 80. One and 5 birds at Sebawanak on 10 Mar
and 13 Dec 1958, respectively. Wings were obtained on 27 Dec 1958
from 2 birds newly shot at Sebawanak. There are 6 previous records
from Somalia (vide A&M).
57. Anas crecca Teal* 87. One at Sebawanak on 13 Dec 1958, and a wing
was obtained from a bird shot on 27 Dec. There are 8 previous rec-
ords from Somalia (A&M).
61. Anas querquedula Garganey 88. One at Hargeisa on 17 Sep 1958. 19a.
69. Sagittarius serpentarius Secretary Bird 103. Thinly distributed on
the plains east to Burao. 19a.
71. Gyps rueppellii Rltppell's Vulture 106. Archer & Godman (1937) con-
sidered this species to be rare. However, individuals were frequently
seen between Hargeisa and Sheikh, where the species was not rare with-
in a restricted range. 19ab. Breeding: carrying nest material to
cliff sites at Ala'ule at the end of Nov 1956. At another possible
nest site at Gaan Libah 40 were seen in Dec 1958. 20a.
72. Neophron monachus Hooded Vulture 111. 13a, 19b.
73. Neophron percnopterus Eygptian Vulture 110. 10a, 13b, 18b, 27b.
75. Trigonoceps occipitalis White-headed Vulture 109. Thinly distrib-
uted, never more than two together. 18ab.
77. Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier 183. Noted Sep and Nov - Jan.
18ad, 19c.
78. Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier 182. One record of 2 males
quartering open fields near Gebile on 20 Sep 1958. 18b.
Circus spp. 'Ringtail' harriers. '‘Ringtails' were seen in the
following squares, in some cases accompanied by male C. macrourus.
Latest date was 9 Mar at Sebawanak. 10d, i8d, 19a.
83. Circaetus gallicus pectoralis Black-chested Snke Eagle 154. 10a,
18d, 19ac.
84. Terathopius ecaudatus Bateleur 159. i3a, 18ad, 19bc.
85. Accipiter badius Shikra 176. Woodland, but once on the Ban Seila
on 13 Apr 1958. 18b, 19c. Breeding: a pair noted adding to a nest at
Gedka Debta on 16 Feb 1958, one of which was sitting tight on 4 Apr.
Two fledged young were being fed by an adult at Hargeisa on 24 Jun
1958. Also noted by A.R. Tribe (pers. comm.) using the same nest at
Daloh (C3 in each case) in 1954 and 1955. 13a, 18b, 19a.
90. Aquila nipalensis orientalis Steppe Eagle* 138. Although not cert-
ainly identified, the large, dark, almost black birds seen frequently
during the winter months were probably this species. Berbera and Har-
geisa.
28 Observations from northwest Somalia
91. Aquila rapax Tawny Eagle 139. 18d, 19c. Breeding: 19ac, in Oct
and Nov in Hargeisa District. Two chicks newly hatched on 27 Nov
f955i
94. Butastur rufipennis Grasshopper Buzzard 158. Migrant, noted 20 Sep
to 7 Oct in small numbers from Nabadid east to Mt Wogr. 1i18b, 19a.
95. Buteo augur archeri Augur Buzzard 167. 18b, 19a.
100. Hieraaetus spilogaster African Hawk Eagle 143. Breeding: 18a.
Half-grown chick noted at Amoud, Borama, 23 Mar 1958.
103. Melierax gabar Gabar Goshawk 178. The black form was commonly
seen in Hargeisa district, usually forming a mixed pair, but both were
black on one occasion. 18ad.
105. Melierax poliopterus Pale Chanting Goshawk 179. 18d, 19c. Breed-
ing: 19c, a nest containing 1 well-grown nestling on 19 Nov 1958, at
Hargeisa Airfield.
106. Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle 146. 13a, 18ad, 19a.
108. Milvus migrans Black Kite 132. Widely distributed Sep - May. 13a,
20b. Breeding: at Berbera, sitting tight in Dec. lic.
110. Chelictinia riocourii Swallow-tailed Kite 131. One record of 10
to 12 birds from grass plains near Silil on 29 May 1958. There are
only 10 previous records (A&M).
111. Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite 133. Scarce; twice seen
Singly during Jun 1958. 19cd.
113. Pandion haliaetus Osprey 186. 10a.
115. Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon 113. 18b, 19d.
117. Falco concolor Sooty Falcon* 118. A.R. Tribe collected an unsexed
bird on an unspecified date at Hubera, probably in square 14b near
Erigavo where he worked (but there is another Hubera in 12a). This is
the tenth record for Somalia (A&M).
119. Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel* 126. Three records in 1958: 15 -
20 on 2 Feb at Biyo Dai, a flock of c.50 on 19 Feb a. few miles NW of
Hargeisa, and 110 between Bulhar and Sebawanak on 10 Mar. Not seen in
other years so possibly of irregular occurrence. 10ac, 18b, 19a.
There are only 5 previous records (A&M).
121. Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 112. Uncommon: records in Mar,
Apr, Oct and Nov. Not racially identified. 18d, 19c.
122. Falco rupicoloides White-eyed Kestrel 124. Infrequently seen,
with no records for 1958. 19a.
123. Falco subbuteo Hobby 115. An immature at Adadleh on 5 Oct 1958.
19)
124. Falco tinnunculus Kestrel 123. Noted frequently on the plateau.
Males resembling the nominate race, i.e. with definite black terminal
tail bands, were common in the winter months whilst at Borama in Dec-
Observations from northwest Somalia 29
ember a male with brighter, glossier mantle was noted - probably of
the race carlo. 13b. Breeding: the resident archeri was found sit-
ting on slightly incubated eggs (C3 and C4) at Erigavo on 20 May 1956;
one of these nests shared the same tree with that of a Cape Rook Cor-
vus capensis, which also had a C3.
125. Polihierax semitorquatus Pygmy Falcon 129. Breeding: 3 nests (A,
B and C) were located at Hargeisa in riverine acacia woodland in 1958,
all in the old nests of White-headed Buffalo Weavers Dinemellia dine-
melli, and all within 14 miles (2.4km) of each other. On 21 Mar 3
young were seen in Nest A, and were outside on 9 Apr at which time 2
were noted as males. On 3 Apr 2 immatures were at Nest B. Nest C was
discovered on 12 Apr when the pair were mobbed by Dinemellia. No
young were seen at Nest C, but each nest entrance was marked with ex-
creta. 19a.
126. Coturnix coturnix Quail* 211. One at Burao on 26 Sep 1956. 20b.
The fifth record for the country (A&M).
131. Francolinus sephaena Crested Francolin 194/195. 18d. Breeding:
half-grown young were seen at Hargeisa on 18 Apr and 7 May 1958. 19a.
134. Numida meleagris 216. 18d.
138. Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen 239. One at Biyo Dai on 29 Jan
1956 .1249a .
142. Porzana parva Little Crake* 229. A&M show square 19a, but this
record refers to an incorrectly labelled female collected at Burao on
9 Oct 1958, therefore the distribution should read 18a, 20b.
149. Eupodotis humilis Little Brown Bustard 255. Breeding: a pair with
an immature, smaller than the female, at Gaan Libah on 15 Jun 1958.
19b.
151. Eupodotis ruficrista Buff-crested Bustard 257. 18b.
153. Neotis heuglini Heuglin's Bustard 252. Uncommon. Noted only S of
Burao, and SW of Berbera. i0d.
154. Otis arabs Arabian Bustard* 249. Two coastal records of single
birds at Zeila and Sebawanak on 28 May and 13 Dec 1958. 10a. There
are at least 4 previous records from Somalia.
155. Otis kori Kori Bustard 250. Open plains and light bush, but was
much persecuted. i8b, 19a.
158. Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher 294. Small parties of up to
me haras. 9 lic.
160. Charadrius asiaticus Caspian Plover 277. Borama and Hargeisa
(maximum 21) 18 - 25 Sep 1958. Two at Sebawanak on 14 Dec 1958. 10a,
2e;
161. Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover 267. Maximum of 12 at Bur-
ao on 13 and 30 Sep 1956; 2 at Bederwanak on 1 Oct 1958. 19a, 20b.
167. Charadrius tricollaris Three-banded Plover 272. 20a.
30 Observations from northwest Somalia
169. Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover 279. One at Loyada in breeding
plumage on 28 May 1958. tic.
170. Vanellus coronatus Crowned Plover 281. 13a, 18d, 19c. Breeding:
chicks were noted at Erigavo in May 1956, and at Hargeisa in Aug and
Sep. Copulation was also observed in Dec 1955. 13a, 19a.
177. Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper 312. 10a, 20b.
178. Numenius arquata Curlew 311. Coastal, otherwise 1 flying S at
Hargeisa on 24 Aug 1958. 19a.
181. Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper 314. 18a.
184. Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper 317. One at Burao on 13 Sep
1956, appearing with heavy rains. 20b.
187. Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe 298. Two (1 collected) 25 Sep -
1 Oct 1958 at Bederwanak. An emaciated bird at Hargeisa on 25 Oct
IQ 56 iat
191. Calidris alpina Dunlin* 304. One at Berbera 17 Sep 1956 - the
eighth record for Somalia (A&M).
200. Philomachus pugnax Ruff 309. Small numbers on passage Aug and
Sep. Three at Sebawanak on 14 Dec 1958. 10a, 20b.
201. Arenaria interpres Turnstone 310. Small numbers on the coast in
winter, with 40+ at Berbera on 7 Mar 1958. lic.
202. Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt 296. Two records only.
One at Burao on 13 Sep 1956, 5 at Sebawanak on 13 Dec 1958. 20b.
206. Burhinus capensis Spotted Thicknee 262. 18b.
209. Cursorius cursor Cream-coloured Courser 325. Movements: 6 flying
N over the escarpment at Gaan Libah on 19 Dec 1958 may only have been
a local movement, but an unusually large flock of 25 - 30 was seen at
nearby Go'o the previous day. 10ad. Breeding: a few immatures were
at Dubur on If Oct 1956. 20a.
210. Rhinoptilus africanus Two-banded Courser 327. 20b. Breeding: a
newly hatched chick was found on the Ban Seila on 17 Aug 1958. 18d.
214. Glareola pratincola Common Pratincole 330. Three records only.
An immature at Hargeisa on 13 Aug 1958, 2 (1 immature) at Burao on 13
Sep 1956 and 1 at Berbera on 17 Sep 1956. tic, 20b. There are only
2 previous records in the north (A&M).
219. Larus argentatus Herring Gull 339. Usually some at Berbera in
winter, mainly immatures. lic.
225. Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull 345. Immatures in small num-
bers at Berbera in Dec and Mar. Also noted at Aden in 1961, where
present throughout the summer (Clarke 1967).
230. Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Black Tern 361. One record of
8 near Loyada on 28 May 1958, 1 was in breeding plumage and the rest
changing into breeding plumage.
Observations from northwest Somalia 31
235. Sterna bengalensis Lesser Crested Tern 355. lic.
246. Pterocles exustus Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse 369. 19a.
248. Pterocles senegallus Spotted Sandgrouse 368. Coastal only, max-
imum 88 in Mar and Dec. iic.
250. Columba guinea Speckled Pigeon 379. 19c. Breeding: at Hargeisa
in Apr, Oct and Nov. 19a.
251. Columba livia Feral Pigeon 376. lic, 19a.
255. Streptopelia decipiens Mourning Dove 387. Seen only at Hargeisa.
Breeding: 2 nests containing C2 on 21 - 25 Mar 1958. Copulation seen
an Auge: 19a.
259. Streptopelia semitorquata Red-eyed Dove 386. 13b, 18ab.
260. Streptopelia senegalensis Laughing Dove 392. 13b. Breeding: eggs
and nestlings found in Mar, Jul, Aug and Nov at Hargeisa, once in the
same bush as S.decipiens. 19a.
264. Treron waalia Bruce's Green Pigeon 400. Local movements during
Mar, Sep and Oct at Hargeisa and Burao where the fig Ficus does not
occur. 13b, 19a, 20b. Breeding: a bird was collected at Gedka Debta
on 4 May 1958 containing a fully-formed egg. 18b.
265. Poicephalus rufiventris Orange-bellied Parrot 448. This species
possibly moves out of NW Somalia during the summer months as none was
seen Jun - Aug. 18a, 20d.
267. Corythaixoides leucogaster White-bellied Go-away Bird 440. 13a,
18a.
269. Chrysococcyx caprius Didric Cuckoo 417. Three singly at Hargeisa
in Apr, Jun and Jul. 19a.
271. Clamator glandarius Great Spotted Cuckoo 413. Infrequently seen
in Feb, Apr, Jun and Dec. 18bd, 19d.
274. Cuculus canorus Eurasian Cuckoo 404. Seen passing through Har-
geisa 19 Jul - 14 Sep. Also 6 on Mt Wogr (4 together) on 14 Oct 1956.
They were not determined racially, but in any case, the races record-
ed from eastern Africa are poorly defined. 13a.
274a. Cuculus clamosus Black Cuckoo* 407. A.R. Tribe collected a male
at Sheikh on 26 Sep 1957, wing 178mm, tail 165mm. This appears to
be the first record for Somalia. 20a.
275. Cuculus gularis African Cuckoo* 404. One at Borama on 24 May
1958. A bird with a yellow bill was calling up to 20 times a pene-
trating cuc-kow, quite different from the call of C.canorus. This
is the eighth record for Somalia (A&M).
280. Centropus superciliosus White-browed Coucal 423. 18b, 19b.
282. Athene noctua Little Owl 537. 18d, 19c. Breeding: at least 1
juvenile seen in a tree at Bederwanak on 29 Nov 1955. An egg was
taken from a tree nest at Hargeisa on 25 Mar 1958 and A.R. Tribe
a2 Observations from northwest Somalia
(pers. comm.) collected a family of five from a Galla grave mound near
Exigavo. 13aynt9ian
283. Bubo africanus Spotted Eagle Owl 543. Two records only, from
rocky streambeds where they were day roosting under rock overhangs, at
Hargeisa on 23 Dec 1955, and at Dubur on 18 Oct 1956. 19a.
284. Bubo lacteus Verreaux's Eagle Owl 544. Breeding: a single fledg-
ling seen at Gedka Debta on 9 Feb 1958, whilst a large unfledged cap-
tive chick at Hargeisa had its legs deliberately broken by a Somali,
and was destroyed. 18b, 19a.
287. Glaucidium perlatum Pearl-spotted Owlet 538. Recorded on 8 occa-
Sions: 4 in Feb, once in Apr, 2 in Aug, and once in Sep; all single
birds in thick riverside woodland.
297. Caprimulgus nubicus Nubian Nightjar 553. Three individuals of the
race torridus were collected after being killed by vehicles - ident-
ified by J.G. Williams.
301. Apus affinis Little Swift 643. 19b. Breeding: one colony of 32 -
36 nests under a rock overhang at Monkey Rock N of Adadleh on 13 Jul
195Sru Ob.
305. Apus melba Alpine Swift 640. 13a.
313. Apaloderma narina Narina's Trogon 570. A.R. Tribe collected a fe-
male at 1600m at Bismago, Almadu, on 17 Jul 1955. 4ac.
315. Ceryle rudis Pied Kingfisher 465. A male collected by A.R. Tribe
at Horufadi on 15 Aug 1957, wing 138mm, tail 69mm. He also reported
one in mangroves at the mouth of the Silil wadi, 40km E of Zeila,
during the last week of May 1958. 2d, 28a. The first records from
north Somalia.
321. Halcyon leucocephala Chestnut-bellied Kingfisher 477. Contrary to
Archer & Godman (1961) this species was noted only in Apr - Oct. 18bd.
325. Merops nubicus Carmine Bee-eater 484. One record of a few birds
in a flock of White-throated Bee-eaters M. albicollis, at Gedka Debta,
280 —) Si Auge 9555 a eb
328. Merops pusillus Little Bee-eater 488. Breeding: an immature was
seen with adults at Hargeisa on 21 Jun 1956. 19a.
329. Merops revoilii Somali Bee-eater 491. 18d, 19c. Breeding: an
adult was watched carrying food to a nest (observation for 45min) 32
km S of Hargeisa on 16 Apr 1958. Three days previously 4 eggs had
been found below this nest entrance (1 broken), and were judged to be
correct for this species (C.W. Mackworth-Praed pers. comm.). They
measured 17.5 x 15.Omm. 19c.
330. Merops superciliosus Madagascar Bee-eater 482. Breeding: 6 - 10
nests were found in a wadi bank at Amoud on 24 May 1958. The adults
were feeding young. In 1958 A.R. Tribe reported (pers. comm.) that
they had bred at Odweina for several years. 18a.
Observations from northwest Somalia 33
332. Coracias caudata Lilac-breasted Roller 460. A summer visitor to
northwest Somalia, Mar - Oct, but some birds apparently overwinter for
they have been seen in Jan and Feb, prospecting nest sites as early as
3 Mar. i19c. Breeding: at Hargeisa in Apr. 19a.
333. Coracias garrulus Eurasian Roller 457. Mainly on passage 16 Sep -
17 Nov, though 1 was at Bihendula on 15 Dec 1958. Only one spring
record, at Hargeisa on 4 May 1958. 18b, 19bc, 20b.
336. Upupa epops Hoopoe 517/518. 19d.
338. Phoeniculus minor Abyssinian Scimitarbill 527. 26a.
339. Phoeniculus purpureus Green Wood Hoopoe 519, 521. 13b, 18d.
Breeding: bird found sitting in a tree hole at Hargeisa on 9 Apr 1958.
19a.
342. Tockus erythrorhynchus Red-billed Hornbill 505. 18a.
343. Tockus flavirostris Yellow-billed Hornbill 506. 13b, 18ad. Breed-
ing: a female was found walled into a nest at Hargeisa on 18 Apr 1958.
At least one chick was seen on 25 Jun, and the nest was empty by 13
guts. (19a.
346. Bucorvus abyssinicus Abyssinian Ground Hornbill* 516. A few un-
dated records of pairs and small parties from open plains about Naba-
did, also twice near Biyo Dai on 9 Sep 1955 and 16 Dec 1956. 19a.
Four previous records from Somalia (A&M).
349. Pogoniulus pusillus Red-fronted Tinkerbird 594. 13b. Breeding:
copulation was noted at Medishe in May 1956. 13b.
351. Trachyphonus erythrocephalus Red and Yellow Barbet 601. Occurs
alongside T. margaritatus at Adadleh and about Mt Wogr. lic, 19a, 20d.
352. Trachyphonus margaritatus Yellow-breasted Barbet 602. Found on
the crest of the plateau northwards to the coast. 10a.
353. Indicator indicator Black-throated Honeyguide 605. Single birds
an@ pairs at Gedka Debta and Ala'tule. 20a.
360. Campethera nubica Nubian Woodpecker 619. Breeding: two chicks at
Hargeisa on 17 Mar 1956 left the nest a week later. 19a.
361. Dendropicos fuscescens Cardinal Woodpecker 623. Less common than
C. nubica though as widely distributed. 13a, 18ad.
371. Eremopterix nigriceps White-fronted Sparrow Lark 680. 19a, 20c.
372. Eremopterix signata Chestnut-headed Sparrow Lark 681. Small
flocks on the plateau, infrequent, Jun and Sep - Nov. 18ad, 19ac.
373. Galerida cristata Crested Lark 675. 10d.
374. Galerida fremantlii Short-tailed Lark 678. Three records only, in
Jul and Oct 1958. 19b.
375. Galerida malabarica Short-crested Lark 676. 18d, 19c.
34 Observations from northwest Somalia
381. Mirafra gilletti Gillett's Lark 664. 19b.
389. Hirundo aethiopica Ethiopian Swallow 1057. Although stated by A&M
to be resident, this species was partially migratory in northwest Som-
alia, as few birds were to be seen Dec - Mar. On 26 Nov 1958 a flock
of 82 was noted before they disappeared, whilst definite increases in
numbers were noted in Apr.
391. Hirundo fuligula African Rock Martin 1073. Breeding: two nest-
lings "seenwat ba toh during 922) — 2 SeMay ae 5 Gae heck
392. Hirundo rustica Eurasian Swallow 1054. Common passage migrant.
Birds moved eastwards in Apr, a few westwards in Jun with more ap-
pearing in Jul. The Jul passage agrees with that observed at Aden
(GVarker 196/)= 9 vinic.. SaranliGie 22 0b -
397. Dicrurus adsimilis Drongo 1088. 13b.
40 tOriolus On7o0lus Golden, Orrzole ,bV64. Vibe Oa-
402. Corvus albus Pied Crow 1172. Wanderers reported from Sheikh in
Oct 1956 (Mrs K.’ Lloyd pers. comm.)); from Burao on*28/72900ers12aaq
(J. Corkhill pers. comm.); and Las Dureh (A.R. Tribe pers. comms) 11a;
AON de
403. Corvus capensis Cape Rook 1173. lic, 13a, 19a. Breeding: found
nesting in the same tree as a Kestrel at Erigavo on 20 May 1956. The
nestlings were heard but could not be seen. A second nest with C4 was
Lound ,onw2ce Mayne. lar
405. Corvus rhipidurus® Fan-tailediRaven 1 i771 8b, olgae
400. Corvus ruficollis edithae Brown-necked Raven 1171. Common, flock-
ing in autumn when 100 were seen at Dubur on 18 Oct 1956. 18d, 19cd.
408. Remiz musculus Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit 1161. Two at Burao on
27 Nov 1956. 20b.
409. Turdoides aylmeri Scaly Chatterer 733. Infrequently seen in small
flocks but only at Hargeisa.
411. Turdoides rubiginosus Rufous Chatterer 732. One collected from a
dozen birds feeding in herbage and low bush covering an alluvial fan
of the Horrof wadi near Borama on 3 Nov 1958. It was sent to J.G.
Williams. None was seen subsequently when the site was visited on
4 Dec. The first record of the species from northern Somalia, and it
is presumably referable to the nominate race, also new to Somalia.
420. Pycnonotus barbatus Common Bulbul 743, 744. Both the races somal-
iensis and dodsoni noted, the latter in the east. 13b. Breeding: on
20 Jun 1958 a nest with 3 nestlings was found at Hargeisa, but by 25th
it had been destroyed. This nest was concealed under the remains of
an old shirt in an otherwise leafless garden bush. Another nest with
C3 was found on 8 Aug, 2 eggs hatched and the young had fledged by
27 the eel iar
424. Cercotrichas galactotes Rufous Bush Chat 934. All records in
Observations from northwest Somalia 35
passage months of Mar and Apr, and Aug - Oct, except for a bird at
Berbera on 13 Dec 1958. Race(s) not determined.
431. Irania gutturalis Irania 920. A white-bellied male was seen at
Hargeisa on 13 Apr 1958. 19a, 20b.
434. Monticola rufocinerea Little Rock Thrush 853. 13b.
435. Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush 850. Passage migrant generally
commonest along the Sheikh/Burao line. One at Hargeisa on 8 Dec 1957.
438. Oenanthe deserti Desert Wheatear 857. 10a.
439. Oenanthe isabellina Isabelline Wheatear 855. The commonest over-
wintering wheatear in northwest Somalia. Earliest date was 24 Aug.
10a, 20bcd. A.R. Tribe had specimens from 3c and 13a.
441. Oenanthe oenanthe Northern Wheatear 854. At least 3 records from
Biyo Dai, Gaan Libah and Hargeisa in Dec and Jan, but could have been
commoner and overlooked. 1i19b.
442. Oenanthe phillipsi Somali Wheatear 856. 10d. Breeding: 19a, in
Apr at Hargeisa where immatures were noted.
444. Oenanthe pleschanka Pied Wheatear 859. Common mid Oct to early
Apr. White-throated forms were seen twice.
445. Phoenicurus ochrurus Black Redstart 918. A male collected at Gaan
Libah on 17 Dec 1958: wing 88mm, tail 65mm. 18b.
447. Saxicola rubetra Whinchat* 883. One at Hargeisa on 20 Apr 1958.
19a. The ninth record for Somalia (A&M).
449. Turdus abyssinicus ludoviciae Somali Blackbird 838. The normal
habitat for this distinctive subspecies is juniper forest Juniperus
procera, but one was noted in citrus orchard at Haraf on 28 Nov 1958.
It was presumably moving between juniper stands situated to the east
and west along the escarpment. 18b.
Turdus sp. On 12 Oct 1958 whilst on Mt Wogr, a thrush-like bird
was seen flying across a glade before disappearing into undergrowth.
It was not seen again. The briefest description included: thrush-
like shape and size, bright red bill, generally brownish colour with
reddish tail and patch in wing, underparts possibly whitish. This
description does not agree with any known species. There is a pos-
sibility that an undescribed species exists amongst the undergrowth on
the mountain. It was not seen by G. Wyman Bury, an ornithologist who
spent Jun - Nov 1905 on Mt Wogr; although possibly he spent most of
his time in the surrounding country (Archer & Godman 1937).
452. Acrocephalus baeticatus African Reed Warbler* 946. Dr J.S. Ash
(pers. comm.) suggests that a bird collected, but unfortunately not
preserved, in mangroves at Zeila on 29 May 1958, may possibly be this
species. Description: olivaceous brown above, with wings and tail
browner and less olivaceous. Below, throat and belly whitish, re-
mainder creamy-buff with flanks and undertail browner. The tail was
rounded. Wing 56mm, ist primary just shorter than coverts, narrow
36 Observations from northwest Somalia
and sharp pointed; 2nd = 6th, 3rd = 4th = longest, 5th just shorter
than 3rd/4th. Notch on inner web of 2nd fell far short of the tip of
8th. Upper mandible blackish, lower yellow-flesh, 12mm to base of
feathers. Gape orange, feet blackish with a hint of greenish, tarsus
21mm. Dr Ash has kindly provided details of a specimen from similar
habitat at Alula for comparison:
Zeila bird Alula A. baeticatus
Winglength 56 mm 55 mm 59 mm
ist primary just <pce -3% mm =
2nd primary = 6th = 5th = 8th
Longest primary 3rd+4th 3rd + 4th
5th primary (-4 mm) just 3/4th - mm -5 mm
Notch on 2nd primary <8th <secondaries
458. Acrocephalus stentoreus Clamorous Reed Warbler* -. Not specifi-
cally identified but birds resembling this species were seen in man-
grove at Zeila in late May 1958. They were very noisy, but difficult
to locate visually, and eluded attempts to obtain a specimen. A large
nest was found, and considered by A.R. Tribe, who was also present, to
be of this species.
459. Apalis flavida Yellow-breasted Apalis 979. 19a.
461. Camaroptera brachyura Grey-backed Camaroptera 1011. 13b, 19a.
462. Camaroptera simplex Grey Wren Warbler 968. 19c.
475. Hippolais languida Upcher's Warbler 937. One was collected on the
Ban Seila on 13 Apr 1958 (identified by C.W. Mackworth-Praed). Birds
thought to have been this species were seen at Burao 5 - 10 Sep 1956,
and in the Sig wadi on 5 Oct 1958. 19b, 20b.
478. Parisoma boehmi Banded Parisoma 787. i3a
479/481. Phylloscopus 959/961. Noted on spring passage but not speci-
fically identified, 13 Feb to 20 Apr 1956 and 1958. 18bd, 19a.
481. Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler 959. A female of the race
acredula was collected by A.R. Tribe at Sheikh on 28 Apr 1957.
482. Phylloscopus umbrovirens Brown Woodland Warbler 964. Observed at
Daloh during late May 1956 and at Gaan Libah, when seen daily 17 - 19
Dec 1958.
483. Prinia gracilis Striped-backed Prinia 1047. lic. Breeding: a
newly fledged juvenile was being fed by adults 15km W of Berbera on
7 Mar 1956, 10d.
486. Spiloptila rufifrons Red-fronted Warbler 987. Breeding: one noted
building a nest in an aloe clump, being attended by a second bird which
which took no active part, at Erigavo on 28 May 1956. Two newly
fledged young were seen at Hargeisa on 22 Jun 1956. 13a, 19a.
487. Sylvia atricapilla Blackcap* 926. On passage from Gaan Libah to
Sheikh; a male on 30 Mar 1956, and a few of both sexes 28 - 30 Oct
Observations from northwest Somalia 37
1956. 19b. There are 7 previous records for Somalia (A&M).
489. Sylvia communis Whitethroat 924. Passage migrant, moving through
Sheikh in strength in Oct, with a few at Hargeisa in Apr and Sep.
490. Sylvia curruca Lesser Whitethroat* 923. One in acacias at Burao
on 18 Nov 1956. 20b. Description: grey brown above with the head
greyer. Gape to ear-coverts blackish. Creamy white below. The sec-
ond record for Somalia (A&M). ;
492. Sylvia mystacea Ménétries' Warbler* 930. Three records 26 Jan -
9 Feb 1958 of small parties frequenting light acacia bush at Biyo Dai,
and heavier bush at Gedka Debta. 18b, 19a. Description: head with a
dull black cap gradually lightening to grey on mantle. Black of head
extending below eye. Eye-ring red. Chin and throat white darkening
to a light grey belly. Underwing light grey. Tail blackish, outer
feathers white. A second bird showed a browner head. There are 7
previous records for the country (A&M).
493. Sylvia nana Desert Warbler* 932. One unsexed bird was collected
from low acacia scrub S of Berbera on 27 Dec 1956 and another was seen
on the Arori plain on 20 Nov 1956. 10d, 20c. There are 7 previous
records (A&M).
495. Sylvietta brachyura Northern Crombec 996. 20b.
496. Sylvietta isabellina Somali Long-billed Crombec 999. Much less
common than S. brachyura, apparently requiring denser vegetation. 18d.
498. Bradornis microrhynchus Grey Flycatcher 792, 794. l3ab, 18d.
Breeding: in Mar 1958 and Oct 1956 at Hargeisa and Dubur, respectively
when adults were noted feeding fledged young. 19a, 20a.
504. Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher 778. Common passage migrant,
27 Aug - 15 Oct, and 14 Apr - 7 May. A late bird at Zeila on 29 May
1958.
506. Batis orientalis Grey-headed Batis 818. 13a.
510. Terpsiphone viridis Paradise Flycatcher 832. Small numbers in
f2ec ena juniper forest. 13b, 18b, 19a.
512. Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit 702. On higher open plains in win-
ter. 18d, 19c, 20bd.
513. Anthus cervinus Red-throated Pipit 713. Two were taken at Ber-
bera on 25 Dec 1958, one of which had already assumed the reddish
breast ilc.
522. Motacilla alba White Wagtail 690. 18a, 20b.
523. Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail 694. Less plentiful than M. alba
and confined to the few permanent streams. 18a, 19a, 20b.
524. Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail 695 - 699. A common passage mi-
grant in Sep, returning early Mar and Apr. The following races were
identified amongst the large flocks seen: nominate: the commonest
mece, tod, 19a; M.f. lutea: 2 at Bihendula, 1Apr 1956, 1 S of Har-
38 Observations from northwest Somalia
geisa, 13 Apr 1958, 19c; M.£. thunbergi: 1 at Berbera, 8 Mar 1958 and
1 at Hargeisa, 14 Apr 1956, 19a; M.f. feldegg: 1 at Berbera, 8 Mar
156.
527. Dryoscopus gambensis Northern Puffback* 1131. One or two on 4 oc-
casions at Gedka Debta 9 Feb - 4 May 1958, a female was collected on
16 Feb. This is the same site where the only previous record of 2
specimens were collected (Archer & Godman 1961, A&M).
529. Laniarius ferrugineus Tropical Boubou 1125. Noted only in, or
close to, juniper forest; in contrast to L.funebris which occupies
thick riverine woodland at lower levels, one species apparently ex-
cluding the other.
530. Laniarius funebris Slate-coloured Boubou 1121. 18b. Breeding:
nest=building an early Oct. ,.20a:
535. Nilaus aber Brupru 1098. fsa.
537. Tchagra jamesi Three-streaked Tchagra 1135. One record of a pair
at Hargervsa ion 16 Apr 1956"
540. Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike 1112. Mainly on spring passage,
with 2 records in autumn - 1 each in Sep and Oct (vide A&M). 13a, 18d.
542. Lanius excubitor Grey Shrike 1100. Birds agreeing with the race
pallidirostris were seen twice on the Ban Seila on 6 Jan 1957 and 19
Jan 1958, and once at Burao on 16 Sep 1956. However, the coastal
race appears to be aucheri, single birds were seen in Dec and Apr, and
13 between Zeila and Silil on 29 May 1958; but whether these were mi-
grants or breeding birds is not known. Qa, 18bd, 20b. Breeding: bird
with 2 fledged young at Berbera on 8 Mar 1958. The young flew without
difficulty, but when sharing the same bush as the adult constantly
begged for food, throwing the head well back with the bill wide open,
accompanied by a rapid wing shivering. They were grey-brown above,
lighter below. A wide dark mark through the eye. Tail not fully
grown, blackish with the edges, tip and base white. This is the first
breeding record for Somalia, and is presumably referable to the race
aucheri. iic. See also L. somalicus.
543. Lanius isabellinus Red-tailed Shrike 1114. L.i. phoenicuroides
was noted on 6 occasions 25 Sep - 18 Oct along the Sheikh/Burao line,
with some birds returning through Hargeisa in Apr. 20b. The race
speculigerus was more widespread on autumn passage, 20 Sep - 21 Oct,
8 records; return from 7 Mar - 13 Apr. Some possibly winter on the
coast as one was at Sebawanak on 14 Dec 1958. 10a, 18d, 20b.
544. Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike 1103. Four records only, 13 - 27
Apr. Satie.
545. Lanius nubicus Nubian Shrike* 1109. An uncommon regular winter
visitor frequenting riverine woodland at Hargeisa; 12 records there
during the 1955/56 winter. One at Gaan Libah on 18 Dec 1958, and a
sick bird was obtained at Burao on 29 Dec 1958 by H. Playfair (pers.
comm.). Extreme dates 14 Sep and 8 Apr. There are only 4 previous
records for Somalia (A&M).
Observations from northwest Somalia 39
547. Lanius somalicus Somali Fiscal 1106. 18d. Breeding: an adult was
watched feeding 2 fledged young near Berbera on 8 Mar 1958, approxi-
mately 14km from the breeding Grey Shrikes mentioned above; the pres-
ent species was a little more advanced. A.R. Tribe found a nest con-
taining 1 nestling at Erigavo on 19 May 1956. 1ic, i3a.
548. Eurocephalus rueppelli White-crowned Shrike 1097. 18d. Breeding:
nest with 1 egg at Gadka Yoghol on 20 Apr 1956. 18d.
549. Prionops plumata Helmet Shrike 1090. Noted infrequently in Mar,
Apr, Aug, Sep and Nov.
552. Cinnyricinclus leucogaster Violet-backed Starling 1184. A few at
Hargeisa on 4 occasions, all 5 Sep - 27 Nov.
553. Cosmopsarus regius Golden-breasted Starling 1198. Breeding: fam-
ily party of 5 at Boghol Jirreh on 3 Jun 1956, when adults were
watched feeding fledged young. 19a.
554. Creatophora cinerea Wattled Starling 1182. Appeared to be absent
between Apr and Jun. 10a, 20b.
555. Lamprotornis chalybaeus Blue-eared Glossy Starling 1188. Breed-
ing: fledged young were noted at Hargeisa in Apr. 19a.
558. Onychognathus blythii Somali Chestnut-winged Starling 1204. Only
in the mountains and N to the coast. 13b, 19a.
561. Spreo albicapillus White-crowned Starling 1212. 13b, 18d. Breed-
ing: a nest with 2 chicks at Erigavo on 21 May 1956 which was pred-
ated by Corvus capensis. An unchecked nest was found at Hargeisa on
fe opr. 1956... 13a, 19a.
563. Spreo shelleyi Shelley's Starling 1215. 18d, 19c. Breeding:
fledged young at Hargeisa on 17 Jul 1956. 19a.
564. Spreo superbus Superb Starling 1216. 13a, 18d, 19c. Breeding:
nests with C3 and C4 at Hargeisa in Mar and Apr, usually in a tree
hole or under corrugated iron roofs but once in an old nest of Dine-
mellia dinemelli. Also C3 on the bare metal girder of a bridge, which
was later deserted. 19a.
566. Buphagus erythrorhynchus Red-billed Oxpecker 1218. 1l3ab. Breed-
ing: fledged young at Hargeisa on 13 Mar 1958. 19a.
568. Anthreptes orientalis Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird 1274. Noted
only at Hargeisa, but possibly overlooked elsewhere.
572. Nectarinia habessinica Shining Sunbird 1240. Breeding: bird
noted at Daloh on 29 May 1956, attending a nest at 3m in a euphorb-
ia. i3a.
573. Nectarinia hunteri Hunter's Sunbird 1264. Twice at Burao in Nov
and Dec, and at Gedka Debta in Apr.
574. Nectarinia mariquensis Mariqua Sunbird 1245. Breeding: nest found
at Hargeisa on 25 Mar 1958 at 44m in a leafless sapling of Acacia
bussei. Destroyed by 8 Apr. 19a.
40 Observations from northwest Somalia
580. Zosterops abyssinica Abyssinian White-eye 1219, 1226. A&M state
"common in NW east of 49°E", but this should read "west of 49°E", and
is supported by the square data. 13b.
585. Euplectes franciscanus Northern Red Bishop 1363. Two males at
Boghol Jirreh on 17 Sep 1958.
590. Pleceus galbula Rtippell's Weaver 1329. 13b.
591. Ploceus intermedius Masked Weaver 1319. All records are between
18 May and 26 Nov 1958. From 29 Jul - 5 Aug 200 - 300 were roosting
at Hargeisa with many Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea (Clarke in
prep.) after which date numbers rapidly diminished. 18b. Breeding:
8 - 10 nests under construction at Borama on 20 Sep 1958. 18a.
594. Ploceus spekei Speke's Weaver 1314. Breeding: small colony of
30 - 40 nests under construction near Gebile on 29 Apr 1956. 18b.
598. Bubalornis niger Red-billed Buffalo Weaver 1285. Two first noted
on 20 Nov 1955 at Hargeisa where possibly a new arrival to the area
(J.M. Watson pers. comm.) 18b. Breeding: noted in small colonies from
Gadka Yoghol to Hargeisa, where fledged young were seen on 18 Mar
US 56ye0) eb), lady.
599. Dinemellia dinemelli White-headed Buffalo Weaver 1286. Breeding:
widespread in Hargeisa valley, nest renovation began in Nov. Noted
feeding almost fledged young at Hargeisa Airfield on 1 Mar 1958. 18d,
USESE
604. Passer catanopterus Somali Sparrow 1298. 13a, 19ab.
607. Passer euchlorus Arabian Golden Sparrow 1305. Breeding: large
colony at Tagusha, Zeila in late May 1958. The nests were placed in
Damas trees, and were being attended even though large close-knit
flocks of adults and young were roaming the surrounding country. The
colony was deserted on i3 - 19 Jul, and none were seen in the area
(A.R. Tribe pers. comm.). .
609. Passer motitensis Rufous Sparrow* 1294. Two records from Gadka
Yoghol in Apr 1956 and Feb 1958. 18d. Breeding: nest-building in
Feb. 18d. There are 5 previous records from Somalia (A&M).
614. Vidua hypocherina Steel-blue Whydah 1442. Two records in 1958: 7
males at Hargeisa on 27 Mar, and a male with waxbills at Gedka Debta
on 8 Jun.
616. Vidua paradisaea Paradise Whydah 1444. Only seen twice, a male at
Borama on 12 Dec 1955 and a pair at Hargeisa on 3 Jun 1956.
619. Estrilda rhodopyga Crimson-rumped Waxbill 1420. Two records of
small parties at Amoud and Gedka Debta in May and Jun 1958, respect-
ively. A male was collected. There are only 3 previous records from
northwest Somalia (A&M).
627. Amadina fasciata Cut-throat 1402. 19c.
629. Lonchura malabarica Silverbill 1383. Breeding: an adult was seen
Observations from northwest Somalia 41
feeding 4 fledged young at Borama on 10 Dec 1955, whilst at Hargeisa
on 8 Jan 1956 a few family parties of 6 - 8 occurred. 18a, 19a.
630. Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting* 1472. An un-sexed immature
was collected on Mt Wogr on 22 Oct 1958. There are at least 5 pre-
vious records (A&M).
631. Emberiza poliopleura Somali Golden-breasted Bunting 1470. 18d,
26a.
632. Emberiza striolata House Bunting 1477. One collected by A.R.
Tribe at Las Asurat on 16 Jun 1956. 3cd.
635. Serinus donaldsoni Grosbeak Canary 1452. A male collected by A.R.
Tribe at Yaguri on 18 Jul 1957. 28b.
636. Serinus dorsostriatus White-bellied Canary 1449. Breeding: a fe-
male was feeding fledged young at Borama on 4 Dec 1958. 18a.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
It is indeed a great pleasure to acknowledge the help and assistance
given me in the field by Messrs H. Playfair, J.M. Watson, and es-
pecially A.R. Tribe who made it possible for me to visit Erigavo and
Zeila. This assistance was backed up by Mr C.W. Mackworth-Praed and
Mr J.G. Williams who identified the collected specimens; together with
many others, including certain Somalis, who provided assistance and
encouragement in many ways - not least with transport. Therefore a
special 'thank you' to Lt Col R.G. Hill, Commanding Officer of the
Somaliland Scouts, and Mr J. Newkirk, Manager of the Amerada Petroleum
Corporation for providing this facility. Finally, if this paper owes
anything to anybody it is to Dr John Ash for raising it from the dead,
and for his kind assistance in commenting upon the first draft.
REFERENCES
ARCHER, G.F. & GODMAN, E.M. 1937, 1961. The birds of British Somali-
land and the Gulf of Aden. Vols 1 & 2 London: Gurney & Jackson,
Vols 3 & 4 Edinburgh and London: Oliver & Boyd.
ASH, J.S. & MISKELL, J.E. 1983. Birds of Somalia their habitat, status
and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. l.
BAIRD, D.A. 1979. Twenty-eight additions to Archer & Godman's 'Birds
of British Somaliland and the Gulf of Aden'. Bulletin of the Brit-
ish Ornithologists' Club 99: 6-9.
CLARKE, G. 1967. Bird notes from Aden Colony. Ibis 109: 516-520.
A weaver roost at Hargeisa, Somalia. In prep.
ENNION, H.E. 1962. Notes on birds seen in Aden and the Western Aden
Protectorate. Ibis 104: 560-562.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1952, 1955. African handbook of
birds. Series I, vols 1 & 2: Birds of eastern and north eastern
42
Africas ist edation-
Observations from northwest Somalia
London: Longmans Green & Co.
G. Clarke, Juniper House, 2 Bellingham Road, Kendal LAY 5JW, U.K.
(Received 23 February 1985)
APPENDIX A
Gazetteer
Latitude, longitude and Ash & Miskell 4 x 4-degree square reference
of places mentioned in the text. The co-ordinates are in degrees and
minutes; all latitudes are
east of Greenwich.
Adadleh 9 46,
Ala'ule 9 56,
Almadu 100;
Alula ik Bye
Amoud 954
Arori OY 23
Bederwanak OS 5
Berbera 10 26
Bihendula HOMO
Biyo Dai 3 3)S)
Boghol Jirreh GeS2
Borama 9 56
Bulhar O92 3
Burao Sahil
Daloh 10 47
Dubur SS
Eik 8 58
Erigavo 1ORS7
Gaan Libah S52
Gadka Yoghol C) 2,
Gebile 9 42
Gedka Debta 9 48
Go'o OR 47/
*Also in square 12c
44
45
48
50
43
45
44
45
45
44
44
43
44
45
47
45
45
47
a4
43
43
43
44
north of the equator, all longitudes are
40, 19b Haraf 9.33. (48050 isp
06, 20a Hargeisa 9 33.44 04, at9a
10, 4c/14a
45, 6b Horrof 9 55, 43-06 rea
1 Wale yi ts aN Horufadi 8.35. 46 25 ae2sa
fe, -20e Hubera (a) 10 40 "46 37,2845
24, 19a Hubera (b) 10°31 “46"0sF sia
02, "ive Las Asurat lt 10°*4 73307 weed
OG alee Las Dureh* 10°11 “46007 frida
19, 19a Loyada 1LIiV28 "4s (Gre Ze
O01, 19a Medishe 10°45 **47"35\7 ws
11, 18a Nabadid 9 4 Perers ea tod
25%, s!O0d Odweina 9 24°45 OFe"Z0eE
347-205 Saad Din 11° 267 43°27) oe
18, “fsa Sebawanak 10 33 “4463S 10a
18, 20a Seila, Ban 9 15 "as 45477 hod
20" 2a Sheikh 9'"56" "4S S25 aod
22, 13a Sig 9 47 44 4277196
48, 19b Silil 10 59) “43"26;, 0022
530 led Silil wadi mouth!1 04 ~43 SsGy2d
SWhre MUS) o Wogr, Mt 10.01 “45.263 ec
59), =1'8b Yaguri 8. 44° 46°57), Zon
56, 19b Zeila 1 2a (43 29
Midwinter observations from Djibouti 43
MIDWINTER OBSERVATIONS FROM DJIBOUTI
J.S. Ash
Djibouti, a small country of some 23000 km?, is sandwiched between
Somalia and Ethiopia opposite South Yemen and thus at the narrowest
sea-crossing between Asia and Africa south of Egypt. It might there-
fore be expected to have many birds. However, ornithologically it has
been extremely poorly known, and it is only in the last few years that
some preliminary field observations have been made. Much existing
knowledge has been brought together recently by Welch & Welch (1984),
referred to as W&W in the text below, but they do not include the few
species that they have not seen themselves. The following observat-
ions result from a brief visit to the country on 25 - 27 December
1975. The first two days were spent along the coast for up to 6km
east of Djibouti town, and on 27th about 2 hours were spent near the
airport.
In the notes which follow there are no published records prior to my
observations for those species indicated by an asterisk; and those
with two asterisks are additions to the list given in W&aW. The 4 x %
degree square numbers for each species mentioned have also been in-
cluded so that they can be traced in the future for mapping distrib-
ution, as in Somalia and Ethiopia (Fig. 1 in Ash & Pomeroy 1981).
Appended also, together with square numbers, is a complete list of
other species of birds reported from Djibouti taken from W&W and the
other literature sources listed. Following my own observations I have
included in parentheses brief references to previous records. The
order and nomenclature follow that of Ash & Miskell (1983).
In midwinter, at least, the area of coastline adjoining Djibouti
town is apparently of some importance to waders and a variety of sea-
birds. A quick inspection on my first arrival indicated that there
were about 8000 waders present of about 18 species, so that the brief
period of my visit might be usefully employed in obtaining more infor-
Mation about them. In the event, about 5600 waders were counted, but
there were some local feeding movements taking place, and as very
Suitable habitat extends eastwards for a considerable distance into
Somalia the total numbers involved may be very large.
Ardea cinerea Grey Heron: 2 on 26th. (The commonest heron (Simoneau
1974); a few in 4 localities by Waw.)
Ardea goliath Goliath Heron: 2 on 26th. (A few recorded by Navez (in
litt.), Simoneau 1974, and Wéw.)
Egretta gularis African Reef Heron: at least 75; in one group of 53,
28 were dark and 25 white; there were no intermediates as would oc-
cur further south in Somalia. (The white phase said to be very rare
(Simoneau 1974); also recorded by Navez 1981, Oustalet 1894, Thes-
iger & Meynell 1935, and Waw.)
Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill: 16 on 26th, presumably of the
Scopus 9: 43-49, June 1985
44 Midwinter observations from Djibouti
race archeri. (Up to 43 by W&W, also recorded by Navez in litt., and
Simoneau 1974.)
Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture: 2 at Airport on 27th. (The
commonest raptor (Simoneau 1974), extremely abundant (W&W), Navez
(inet ees ye)
Aquila rapax Tawny Eagle: 2 on 26th. (Recorded by Simoneau 1974, but
only one by W&W; also recorded by Oustalet 1894.)
Milvus migrans Black Kite: 1 - 2 on 2 days only. (Recorded as fairly
common by W&W, but curiously not at all by Simoneau 1974.)
*Pandion haliaetus Osprey: 5 on 25th. (Fairly common according to WaW,
but not mentioned by Simoneau 1974.)
*Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon: 1 on 25th. (4 seen by WéW.)
Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher: 40+ on 25th and 26th. (Several
seen by W&W, recorded by Simoneau 1974 and Navez in litt.)
Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover: 200 on 25th, 250 on 26th, ap-
parently including both northern migrants and local birds. (Up to
20 by W&W, also by Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Charadrius hiaticula Ringed Plover: 100 on 25th and 26th. (Only a few
by W&W; also noted by Navez in litt. and Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Charadrius leschenaultii Great Sandplover: 300 on 26th. (Very few seen
by W&W; Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Charadrius mongolus Mongolian Sandplover: 50 on 25th and 26th. (Very
few recorded by W&W; Heuglin 1859.)
**Pluvialis dominica Lesser Golden Plover: 21 on 26th. The only record
from Djibouti (Ash 1980).
*Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover: 200 on 25th and 26th. (A few re-
ports by W&W; Navez in litt.)
Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper: 2 on 25th, 5 on 26th. (Small
numbers by W&W; Navez in litt., Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Numenius arquata Curlew: 25 on 25th and 26th. (Fewer by W&W; Navez in
litt., Simoneau 1974, Archer & Godman 1937.)
Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel: 10 on 25th and 26th. (Similar numbers seen
by W&W; Archer & Godman 1937, Navez in litt.)
Tringa nebularia Greenshank: 3 on 25th, 5 on 26th. (Common - Simoneau
1974; Archer & Godman 1937, Friedmann 1930, Navez in litt., Thes-
iger & Meynell 1935, W&W.)
Tringa totanus Redshank: 75, including a flock of 42, on 25th and
26th. (Numerous in W&W; Archer & Godman 1937, Navez in litt.)
Calidris alba Sanderling: 1000 on 25th and 26th. (Few by W&W; Archer &
Godman 1937.)
Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper: 2000 on 25th and 26th. (Fairly
common by W&W; Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Calidris minuta Little Stint: 250+ on 25th and 26th. (A few by Wéaw;
Friedmann 1930, Thesiger & Meynell 1935, Navez in litt.)
*Limicola falcinellus Broad-billed Sandpiper: 3 on 25th. (One on 25
March 1983 by W&W.) For other records in the area see Ash (1978).
Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit: 500+ on 25th, 1000+ on 26th. (Very
few by W&W; Heuglin 1859, Navez in litt.)
*Arenaria interpres Turnstone: 500 on 25th and 26th. (Common by W&W;
Navez in litt.)
Midwinter observations from Djibouti 45
*Larus argentatus Herring Gull: Fairly common. (Recorded by Wa&Ww.)
*ZLarus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull: Very common. (Navez in litt.,
WaW.)
Larus hemprichii Sooty Gull: Very common. (Very common by W&W; Navez
1981, Simoneau 1974.)
*Tarus leucophthalmus White-eyed Gull: One on 26th. (Up to 50 by Waéaw;
Navez 1981.)
*Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull: 15 on 25th and 26th. (Up to 16 by
WéeW.)
*Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern: 10 on 25th, 50 on 26th. (Up
to 10 by W&aW; Navez in litt.)
*Sterna bengalensis Lesser Crested Tern: 500 on 25th and 26th. (Rel-
atively few by W&W; Navez 1981.)
*Sterna albifrons Little Tern: 25 on 25th and 26th. (Very few by Waw;
Navez 1981.)
*Sterna bergii Crested Tern: 3 on 25th. (Rather more seen by W&W.)
*Sterna caspia Caspian Tern: 15 on 25th and 26th. (Two by Wa&aW; Navez
in litt., Simoneau 1974.)
**Sterna repressa White-cheeked Tern: 3 on 25th. The only record for
Djibouti.
**Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern: 1 on 25th. The only record from
Djibouti. This species is evidently commoner in the Gulf of Aden
than the existing few records suggest, for I saw over 100 on the
Hadhramaut coast on 27 November 1984.
Psittacula krameri Rose-ringed Parrakeet: 15 on 26th. (Two by Waw;
Navez 1981, Simoneau 1974.)
*Corvus splendens Indian House Crow: 25+ daily in the town and on the
beach. (Extremely numerous in Djibouti and 18 at Obock; has obvious-
ly increased greatly (W&W); they were first seen in Djibouti by
Clarke (1967) in 1958, then again by Dr A.S. Cheke (in litt.). The
major increase in Djibouti is similar to that elsewhere in the Afro-
Arabian area (Ash 1984).
Pycnonotus barbatus Common Bulbul: Fairly common in urban areas.
(Fairly common by W&W; Navez in litt., Oustalet 1894, Thesiger &
Meynell 1935.)
*Oenanthe isabellina Isabelline Wheatear: 2 on 25th. (One by Wé&W.)
Hippolais pallida Olivaceous Warbler: 2 at the Airport on 27th. (A few
by W&W; Heuglin 1859.)
*Prinia gracilis Striped-backed Prinia: Common in urban areas and
along the head of the beach. (Common by W&W; Navez in litt., Ash
1982.)
*Motacilla alba White Wagtail: 10 on 25th. (A few by Waw.)
*Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail: 1 on 25th. (Common by Wé&wW.)
Nectarinia habessinica Shining Sunbird: 2 on 27th. (A few by WawW;
Oustalet 1894, Thesiger & Meynell 1935.)
Ploceus galbula Riippell's Weaver: A female on 25th, 10+, including ad-
ult males, at the Airport on 27th. (Very common by W&W; Archer &
Godman 1961; Friedmann 1937; Oustalet 1894; Thesiger & Meynell
1935)
*Passer euchlorus Arabian Golden Sparrow: 15 at the Airport on 27th,
46 Midwinter observations from Djibouti
some singing and sitting in Stereospermum-like trees; they were
identical with birds in Yemen and further east in Somalia. Passer
luteus (the Golden Sparrow) is spreading south and is now very close
to the Djibouti border, and it is conceivable that the two species
may meet at some time (Ash et al. 1980). (Quite common by Wa&wW.)
ADDITIONAL SPECIES
The following list is of all the other species, as well as those
discussed above, recorded from Djibouti. The great majority are from
Welch & Welch (1984).
The record locality square numbers are given for each species and
include my own, other literature sources, and the many provided by
GoyRer wat Hie omaWe LG ina (ela ebeTa tetra) ie
Pelecanus rufuscens Pink-backed Pelican 4b, 5a. Sula leucogaster Brown
Booby 2c. Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 5a. Butorides striatus Green-
backed Heron 5a. Egretta garzetta Little Egret 5a. Ciconia abdimii
Abdim's Stork 4b, 5a. Threskiornis aethiopica Sacred Ibis 5a. Phoen-
icopterus ruber Greater Flamingo 5a. Neophron rueppellii Rtippell's
Vulture 4b. Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier 4b, 5a. C. macrourus
Pallid Harrier 2c, 4bd, 5a. C. pygargus Montagu's Harrier 4b. Circ-
aetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle 4b. Accipiter badius Shikra 4b. *A.
nisus Eurasian Sparrowhawk 4b. *Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 4b.
*A. nipalensis Steppe Eagle 4b, 5a. A. verreauxi Verreaux's Eagle 4b.
Buteo buteo Common Buzzard 4b. B. rufinus Long-legged Buzzard 4b.
Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle 2c, 4b, 5a. H. spilogaster African
Hawk Eagle 4b. Falco concolor Sooty Falcon 2c. F. naumanni Lesser Kes-
trel 4b. F. tinnunculus Kestrel 4b.
Francolinus ochropectus Djibouti Francolin 4b. Otis arabs Arabian Bus-
tard 4d. Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover 5a. Pluvialis dominica
Lesser Golden Plover 5a. Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper 5a. T. ochro-
pus Green Sandpiper 4b, 5a. Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper 5a. Calid-
ris alpina Dunlin 5a. Dromas ardeola Crab Plover 2c, 5a. Burhinus cap-
ensis Spotted Thicknee 4c. Stercorarius pomarinus Pomarine Skua 5a.
Chlidonias leucopterus Whiskered Tern 5a. Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern 5a
breeding. Pterocles lichtensteinii Lichtenstein's Sandgrouse 5a.
P. senegallus Spotted Sandgrouse 2c. Columba arquatrix Olive Pigeon
4b. C. guinea Speckled Pigeon 4bd, 5a. Oena capensis Namaqua Dove 2c,
5a. Streptopelia roseogrisea Pink-headed Dove 4b, 5a. S. senegalensis
Laughing Dove 4b, 5a. Treron waalia Bruce's Green Pigeon 4b. Otus
scops Scops Owl 4b. Caprimulgus inornatus Plain Nightjar 4c. C. nub-
icus Nubian Nightjar 4d, 5a (tamaricis).
Apus affinis Little Swift 5a. *A. pallidus Pallid Swift 4b. Cypsiurus
parvus Palm Swift 5a. Merops albicollis White-throated Bee-eater 4bc.
M. apiaster Eurasian Bee-eater 2c, 4bd, 5a. M. persicus or supercili-
sus Blue-cheeked or Madagascar Bee-eater 4b, 5a (breeding). Upupa
epops Hoopoe 4b, 5a. Tockus flavirostris Yellow-billed Hornbill 4b.
T. hemprichii Hemprich's Hornbill 4b. Lybius melanocephalus Black-
throated Barbet 4bc. Trachyphonus margaritatus Yellow-breasted Barbet
Midwinter observations from Djibouti 47
4pcd, 5a. Campethera nubica Nubian Woodpecker 4b. Dendropicos fusces-
cens 4bc.
Alaemon alaudipes Hoopoe Lark 2c, 4bd, 5a. Ammomanes deserti Desert
Lark 2c, 4abcd. Eremopterix nigriceps White-fronted Sparrow Lark 2c,
4bcd, 5a. Galerida cristata Crested Lark 4bd, 5a. Hirundo fuligula
African Rock Martin 4bd, 5a. H. rustica Eurasian Swallow 2c, 4bd, 5a.
Dicrurus adsimilis Drongo 4b. Oriolus oriolus Golden Oriole 4c. Corvus
rhipidurus Fan-tailed Raven 4b, 5a. C.ruficollis Brown-necked Raven
5a. Cercomela melanura Black-tailed Rock Chat 4bc, 5a. Cercotrichas
galactotes Rufous Bush Chat 4bcd, 5a. C. podobe Black Bush Robin 4b.
Irania gutturalis Irania 5a. Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush 4b.
M. solitaria Blue Rock Thrush 4b. *Oenanthe bottae Red-breasted Wheat-
ear 4b. O. hispanica Black-eared Wheatear 4b. O. leucopyga White-
'rumped Wheatear 4c. *O. monacha Hooded Wheatear 5a. O. pleschanka Pied
Wheatear 4b, 5a. Phoenicurus ochruros Black Redstart 4b. P. phoenic-
urus Redstart 4bd, 5a. Saxicola torquata Stonechat 4b. Turdus philo-
melos Song Thrush 4b.
Acrocephalus arundinaceus zarudnyi Great Reed Warbler 4c. Camaroptera
brachyura Grey-backed Camaroptera 4b. Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wood
Warbler 4b. P.trochilus Willow Warbler 4bcd, 5a. P.umbrovirens Brown
Woodland Warbler 4b. Spiloptila rufifrons Red-fronted Warbler 4bcd.
Sylvia atricapilla Blackcap 5a. S. borin Garden Warbler 4c. S. commun-
is Whitethroat 4c, 5a. S.nisoria Barred Warbler 4c, 5a. *S. ruep-
pelli Ruppell's Warbler 4b. Sylvietta brachyura Northern Crombec 4bd.
Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher 4c. Batis orientalis Grey-headed
Batis 4bc. Terpsiphone viridis Paradise Flycatcher 4b.
Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit 2c, 5a. A. cervinus Red-throated Pipit
4b, 5a. A. novaeseelandiae Richard's Pipit 4b. A. similis Long-billed
Pipit 4b. A. trivialis Tree Pipit 4c, 5a. Motacilla cinerea Grey Wag-
tail 4b. Laniarius ferrugineus Tropical Boubou 4b. Rhodophoneus cru-
entus 2c, 4bc, 5a. Tchagra senegala Black-headed Tchagra 4b. Lanius
excubitor Grey Shrike 4bc, 5a. L.isabellinus Red-tailed Shrike 4b,
5a. L. somalicus Somali Fiscal 4b. Cinnyricinclus leucogaster Violet-
backed Starling 4bc. Onychognathus blythii Somali Chestnut-winged
Starling 4b. Buphagus erythrorhynchus Red-billed Oxpecker 4b. An-
threptes platurus Pygmy Sunbird 4bc, 5a. Nectarinia habessinica Shin-
ing Sunbird 4b, 5a. Zosterops abyssinica Abyssinian White-eye 4b.
Ploceus galbula Ruppell's Weaver 4b, 5a. Passer griseus Grey-headed
Sparrow 4d, 5a. Lagonosticta senegala Red-billed Firefinch 4b, 5a.
Lonchura malabarica Silverbill 4b, 5a. Emberiza striolata House Bunt-
ing 4b. E. tahapisi Cinnamon-breasted Rock Bunting 4b, 5a. Serinus
atrogularis Yellow-rumped Seed-eater 4b
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My best thanks are extended to Geoff and Hilary Welch for the copy
of their report on Djibouti and for supplying me with the square data
for their many observations.
48 Midwinter observations from Djibouti
REFERENCES
ARCHER, G.F. & GODMAN, E.M. 1937, 1961. The birds of British Somali-
land and the Gulf of Aden. Vols 1 & 2 London: Gurney & Jackson,
Vols 3 & 4 Edinburgh and London: Oliver & Boyd.
ASH, J.S. 1978. Inland and coastal occurrences of Broad-billed Sand-
pipers in Ethiopia and Djibouti. Bulletin of the British Ornithol-
ogists’ Club 98: 24-26.
1980. The Lesser Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica in north-
east Africa and the Red Sea. Scopus 4: 64-66.
1982. A major extension in distribution of the Stripe-backed
Prinia Prinia gracilis in Somalia. Bulletin of the British Ornithol-
ogists’ Club 102: 2-5.
1984. The Indian House Crow Corvus splendens in the Peoples
Democratic Republic of Yemen. United Nations Environment Programme
Report NEP/84/0189, pp. 29.
& MISKELL, J.E. 1983. Birds of Somalia their habitat, status
and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. l.
& MURSHID, A.A. 1980. Arabian Golden Spar-
rows Passer euchlorus in Somalia and Djibouti. Scopus 4: 22-24.
& POMEROY, D.E. 1981. Mapping schemes in the Afrotropical
EFegions WEDISih239:) 552-553)
CLARKE, G. 1968. Somali bird notes. Unpublished MS, pp. 130.
FRIEDMANN, H. 1930, 1937. Birds collected by the Childs Frick exped-
ition to Ethiopia and Kenya Colony. Part 1. Non-Passeres. Part 2.
Passeres. Bulletin of the United States National Museum 153:1-516
and 1-506.
HEUGLIN, T. von. 1859. List of birds observed and collected during a
voyage in the Red Sea. Ibis 4: 337-352.
NAVEZ, A. 1980. A checklist of birds seen in Djibouti. Unpubl. MS.
1981. Birdwatching in and around Djibouti City. Ethiopian
Wildlife & Natural History Society Newsletter 158.
OUSTALET, E. 1894. Catalogue des oiseaux rapportés par M.G. Revoil de
son deuxiéme voyage aux pays Somalis (Afrique Orientale). Biblio-
théque de 1'Fcole des Hautes Etudes, Section des Sciences Naturelles
(Note that the original of this paper was not traced and that both
the date and the journal name may be incorrect.)
SIMONEAU, E.L. c. 1974. Les animaux du Territoire des Afars et des
Issas. Djibouti. (Note that neither date nor publisher are shown in
this book.)
THESIGER, W. & MEYNELL, M. 1934. Cercomela melanura aussae and Fring-
illaria striolata dankali. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’
Glub, 553) 79".
Midwinter observations from Djibouti 49
THESIGER, W. & MEYNELL, M. 1935. On a collection of birds from Danakil
Abyssinia. Ibis 1935: 774-807.
WELCH, G.R. & WELCH, H.J. 1984. Djibouti Expedition March 1984, pp.
60.
J.S. Ash, Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History, Smit
Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. 20560, U.S.A.
(Received 23 February 1985)
ADDENDUM
Page 47 above: the English name Rosy-patched Shrike was omitted from
Rhodophoneus cruentus.
ADDENDA
The following two species accounts were omitted from Mr N.R. Fuggles-
Couchman's paper 'The distribution of, and other notes on, some birds
Steeanzanitva — Part ii (continued) "printed in Scopus 8: 81-92. We
offer our apologies to the author and readers for this mistake.
Apalis thoracica Bar-throated Apalis
The range of this species as given by Britton (1980) for the race
griseiceps should be extended southwards from the Nou Forest, Mbulu,
to include Mt Hanang where, in February 1946, it was numerous in the
forests above Nangwa, up to 2300m. A male (46/21) was collected there
on 5 February. This apalis was also recorded from a dry type of gal-
lery forest on the northern slopes of the mountain in the same month.
In January 1961 this species was found in the forest above Bismarck
Hut on Mt Kilimanjaro, and is notable for the altitude of that local-
ity, 3200m, which is 500m higher than the altitudinal limit given
by Britton (1980).
Camaroptera brachyura Grey-backed Camaroptera
Britton (1980) gives the range of the race fugglescouchmani as from
the Ulugurus to Mahenge. This should be extended northwards to in-
clude the Nguru Mts. Moreau (1939) described this new race and gave
its distribution as "Uluguru and Nguru Mts in evergreen forest".
The inclusion of the Nguru Mts was based on a male (38/17) collected
for him in evergreen forest near Mhonda Mission at 650m, in August
1938, to which there is reference in the original description.
50 Short communications
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
SHOEBILL BALAENICEPS REX: A DELETION FROM THE KENYA AVIFAUNA
It was with a blend of interest and concern that we read I.S.C. Park-
er's (1984) admission of an orchestrated hoax which resulted in the
erroneous inclusion of the Shoebill in the avifauna of Kenya, both in
Britton (1978) and Britton (1980).
Though there is no proper evidence that the Shoebill has ever oc-
curred in Kenya, it is worth placing a 1969 experience on record.
Prior to the partial draining of Yala Swamp, as part of an agronomy
and food production project in 1970-72, we were privileged to spend a
day in the then undisturbed swamp. In a canoe, we traversed about 12
km of papyrus in the southwestern part of the swamp, from the edge to
the Yala River, along the river, and back to our point of entry. It
was a rewarding experience which we will always cherish. Species en-
demic to papyrus, such as Papyrus Gonolek Laniarius mufumbiri, were
numerous, and it became clear from discussion, in the Luo language,
that our guides knew the Shoebill. They said that it was only the
occasional individual seen, rather than territorial or sedentary
birds. We have not visited Yala Swamp since 1972, but the damage
done, apparently irrevocable, precludes the opportunity to confirm
or refute the occurrence of this magnificent bird in Kenya.
REFERENCES
BRITTON, P.L. 1978. Seasonality, density and diversity of birds of a
papyrus swamp in western Kenya. Ibis 120: 450-466.
PARKER, I.S.C. 1984. Shoebill Balaeniceps rex: a deletion from the
Kenya avifauna. Scopus 8: 79.
Peter & Hazel Britton, All Souls’ & St Gabriel's School, Charters
Towers, Q 4820, Australia Received 10 February 1985
Scopus 9: 50, June 1985
GROUND NESTING OF EMERALD-SPOTTED WOOD DOVE TURTUR CHALCOSPILOS
On 26 September 1983 a nest of an Emerald-spotted Wood Dove was loc-
ated along the coast 17km north of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania at 6.37S,
39.11E. The nest contained two eggs and was unusual in both its con-
struction and siting. The surrounding area is coastal bush with ad-
jacent mature gardens and local shambas. There is no shortage of
available normal nesting sites, and the dove is common in the area.
However, this nest was on the ground, a sand bar formed inland of a
bay and associated mangroves. The nest was well away from any trees
or bushes but just inside the overhanging stems of a creeping legume
that is a common early colonizer of exposed sand. These stems offered
a certain degree of camouflage but no other protection. Dead plant
material around the nest also aided its concealment.
Short communications 51
The nest was a slight depression among this debris, its material
consisted of a few short twigs and dead grass stalks, certainly much
less than the usual 'twiggy' structure built by the species. The sand
could be seen clearly through the nest and actually formed the slight
cup holding the eggs. There is no known record of any Turtur species
nesting on the ground, although it is probably more common than this
one record would suggest (D. Goodwin pers. comm.). Interestingly,
J.S. Ash (pers. comm.) found that nests of Tf. chalcospilos in Somalia
were often exposed on the tops of small bushes.
A direct result of the chosen nest site was that the nest and con-
tents were exposed to the sun when the sitting bird left. When the
nest was first found, at 11:00, the incubating bird sat tight (even
compressing its feathers to reduce its apparent size) allowing a close
approach of 2m before flying away. A return visit 30 minutes later
to photograph the nest found the bird standing astride the eggs, pant-
ing. No gular flutter was observed during this rather heavy panting,
although this is recorded for doves above 40C (D.L. Serventy in Farner
& King 1971). Clearly the bird was shading the eggs from the sun and
it seemed more concerned with that than my presence several metres
away. Eventually photographs were obtained from 3m. During the sev-
eral minutes used for photography the bird remained motionless and
stayed over the eggs while I moved away. There is no known record of
any species of Columbidae shading its eggs to cool them. It has been
Suggested (D. Goodwin pers. comm.) that the eggs were too warm for the
adult to bear against its skin and this, rather than the need for shade
shade, prevented the bird from sitting. However, body temperatures
above 44C have been recorded for doves and the instinct to incubate is
strong.
Even assuming that this particular individual had always been a
ground nester, its action in shading the eggs seems remarkable. It
implies that the bird sensed that the eggs were too warm, and there-
fore needed cooling. It is likely that heat from the sand and direct
heat from the sun (after I had flushed the bird) increased the temp-
erature of the eggs considerably, probably approaching 40.5C, which is
the maximum survival temperature in domestic hens (R. Dent in Farner &
King 1975).
Thermosensitivity through the bill is recorded for other members of
the Columbidae which would perhaps rarely have need of this facility,
and its development in the family is probably slight. However, these
observations suggest that it may be far from dormant, and that it can
be utilized when necessary. Slides taken of the bird standing astride
the eggs are lodged in the British Museum, Tring. Unfortunately it
was not possible to return to the site and the outcome of the clutch
is unknown.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I wish to thank Mr Derek Goodwin for his helpful comments on an
earlier draft of this note.
52 Short communications
REFERENCES
FARNER, D.S. & KING, J.R. 1971. Avian biology Vol. 1. New York: Aca-
demic Press.
1975. Avian biology Vol. 5. New York: Aca-
demic Press.
N.E. Baker, Box 5272, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Received 6 March 1985
Scopus 9: 50-52, June 1985
PROTECTIVE BEHAVIOUR IN A NESTLING RED-CHESTED CUCKOO
CUCULUS SOLITARIUS
In early December 1984 my wife found the nest of a Robin Chat Cossypha
caffra situated at the base of a potted Cymbidium orchid in our gar-
den at Langata, near Nairobi, Kenya. The cupped nest, although par-
tially concealed by the long green leaves of the orchid, was only 1.5
m Off the ground and allowed easy observation from above. The nest
contained two eggs, the smaller being heavily marked with dull reddish
brown on a paler background, the larger she described as being bluish
in colour, and had probably been laid by a Red-chested Cuckoo (later
proved correct). Several days later my daughter noticed that a chick
was present and that one egg had been evicted and was lying undamaged
a few centimetres outside the nest.
I observed the nestling, clearly a cuckoo, possibly 7 - 10 days after
hatching; unfortunately no accurate record of dates had been kept.
With unimpaired observation from above, the cup of the nest was com-
pletely filled by the nestling cuckoo which, unless disturbed, re-
mained absolutely still. The plumage was striking in that the whole
was deep slate with off-white elongated spots giving the impression
to Robert M. Glen, who was with me, of a tightly coiled adder. Small
feathers appeared to grow forwards from the forehead, virtually con-
cealing the black bill and giving a blunted semblance to the head.
The initial impression of a coiled viper was reinforced when a finger
was pointed towards the nestling. When reaching to within some 3 - 4 ~
cm from the dormant bird, suddenly, with an apparently calculated
lunge and stab, the head would be shot forward with a wide open bright
orange gape, enough to make the most hardened snake-catcher recoil
in alarm.
Robert Glen likened the nestling's reaction to the striking. of a Tree-
viper Atheris sp. which he had encountered in the Impenetrable Forest
of western Uganda; these aggressive small snakes also have a wide gape
with an orange mouth colour.
Despite a wide search in published literature, including Friedmann
(1968), I can find no reference to similar protective behaviour
demonstrated by other nestlings of the cuckoo family. The only photo-
graph of a recently fledged bird I was able to locate which gives
some idea of the reptilian appearance of the nestling is in van Som-
Short communications 5}
eren"s Days' with birds (1956, p. 155).
A month later, the young cuckoo was observed, in its subadult plumage,
at close quarters being fed by the two Robin Chats, usually within 20
m of the nest.
REFERENCES
FRIEDMANN, H. 1968. The evolutionary history of the avian genus Chrys-
ococcyx. U.S. National Museum Bulletin 265: 1-137.
VAN SOMEREN, V.G.L. 1956. Days with birds: studies of habits of some
East African species. Fieldiana Zoology 38.
A.L. Archer, Wildlife Services Limited, Box 30678, Nairobi
Scopus 9: 52-53, June 1985 Received 25 April 1985
GILLETT'S LARK MIRAFRA GILLETTI NEW TO KENYA
One of us (JEM) has already provided evidence in litt. for A bird at-
las of Kenya (Lewis & Pomeroy in prep.) to show that Gillett's Lark
has occurred in the country. This was based on specimens collected
84 years ago in northeastern Kenya and summarized in Erlanger (1907).
Recently a full list of the 24 specimens collected by Erlanger in the
border area of Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya has been found in Hilgert
(1908), and at least 14 of these were actually within Kenya.
We have used the map in Erlanger (1902) as well as the U.S. Army Map
Service 1: 500,000 Sheet NA 37/3, Series Y401, Edition 3-GSGS for El
Wak in order to trace the localities. The Kenya records are as fol-
lows (co-ordinates in degrees and minutes; m = male, f = female):
Handotu (=Handudu) 3.57N, 41.53E, im, 2 May 1901
Karo-Lola (=Garolola) 3.51N, 41.40E, 3m, 3 May 1901
Karo-Lola, 3m, 5 May 1901
Karo-Lola, 2m, 7 May 1901
Sarigo (=Sarego) 3.43N, 41.30E, im, 8 May 1901
Gordoba-Djira (=Gordoba-Gira, =Gordoba-Dschira) c. 3.33N, 41.27E,
im, 9 May 1901
Gordoba-Djira, 1f, 10 May 1901
Djeroko (=Jeroko, =Dschiroka) 3.25N, 41.18E, 1m, if, 12 May 1901
The following locality is on the Kenya/Somalia border:
Damaso (=Damassa, =Damas) 3.09N, 41.20E, im, 14 May 1901
Damaso, im, 1f, 15 May 1901
The follwing locality is probably on the border or just on the Somalia
Side:
Wante (?=Uenti Digo or Uenti Dima) c. 2.54N, 41.05E, 1f, 19 May 1901
Other localities referred to, including Darassum, Malka Re, Guna, Ab-
rona and Kote-Serira are in Ethiopia or Somalia. Garre-Liwin is the
name of a general area including several of the above localities.
54 Short communications
This lark is common in Somalia to the east of Erlanger's sites, but
does not extend south beyond 2°N (Ash & Miskell 1983). To the north
it extends westwards in southern Ethiopia to at least 39°30'E, and
possibly further, so that it may also occur in extreme northeastern
Kenya at other sites as far west as Moyale (3.32N, 39.04E). The
specimens under discussion should be referable to the race arorihensis
(Erard 1975), although the possibility that Mirafra degodiensis might
occur should not be overlooked. This recently described species
(Erard loc. cit.) is known from the type locality only, but it is in-
teresting to note that this is in an area of southeastern Ethiopia
from which there are no records of M. gilletti, although they occur
in all directions within a short distance.
REFERENCES
ASH, J.S. & MISKELL, J.E. 1983. Birds of Somalia their habitat, status
and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. l.
ERARD, C. 1975. Variation géographique de Mirafra gilletti Sharpe.
Description d'une espéce jumelle. L'Oiseau 45: 293-312.
ERLANGER, C.F. von 1902. Zoogeographie und Ornithologie von Abyssin-
ien, den Galla- und Somali-Landern. Ber. Senck. Naturfor. Ges. 155-
169.
1907. Beitrage zur Vogelfauna Nordostafrikas. Jour-
nal fiir Ornithologie 1907: 1-58. ;
HILGERT, C. 1908. Katalog der Collection von Erlanger in Nieder-
Ingelheim a. Rh. Berlin: Friedlander & Sohn.
LEWIS, A.D. & POMEROY, D.E. in prep. A bird atlas of Kenya.
J.E. Miskell, CARE, c/o UNHCR, Box 2925, Mogadishu, Somalia and J.S.
Ash, Division of Birds, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C.
20560, U.S.A. Received 10 April 1985
Scopus 9: 53-54, June 1985
LEUCISTIC SOMALI BIRDS
Follwing on from Lewis" (1983) observation of a leucistic Common Bul-
bul Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor, it may be of interest in view of the
geographical separation to record a leucistic specimen of P. b. som-
aliensis, and a partly leucistic specimen of the Red Somali Lark Mir-
afra africana sharpii.
On 13 April 1958, a male Red Somali Lark was collected on the Ban
Seila at approximately 9°15'N, 43°50'E (the type locality) and was
deposited in the British Museum (Natural History). On examination
this bird was found to have the following feathers white, in an ap-
parently otherwise normal plumage: left wing - 2nd primary covert,
Short communications, Reviews 55
right wing - ist - 7th primary coverts, inclusive; 4th primary,
white with a buff tinge on the outer web. (All measured ascend-
antly.)
Also of great interest was the fact that the testes were enlarged
and measured 9x5 and 8x4mm; other measurements were wing 107 mn,
tarsus 32mm and culmen 15.5mm. The bird had been calling from the
top of a zariba.
The Common Bulbul was noted on 16 December 1958 at Sheikh (9°56'N,
45°12'E) and was one of a pair, the other bird being normal in colour-
ation. They were frequenting a house garden. In this bird the plum-
age was generally creamy white except for some buff-brown marks on the
tail. The normal black/brown of the head was a burnt brown, and the
bill and feet were black.
The above are the only records of leucistic specimens obtained dur-
ing the periods of observation in northwestern Somalia from April 1955
to January 1957, and December 1957 to December 1958, all months in-
clusive.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My grateful thanks are due to Mr C.W. Mackworth-Praed for kindly
identifying and accepting the Red Somali Lark.
REFERENCE
LEWIS, A.D. 1983. A leucistic Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus.
Scopus 7: 94-95.
G. Clarke, Juniper House, 2 Bellingham Road, Kendal LA9 5JW, U.K.
Scopus 9: 54-55, June 1985 Received 23 October 1984
REVIEWS
Southern Birds - a journal of the Witwatersrand Bird Club, a branch of
the Southern African Ornithological Society.
This is a journal with a difference. Each part consists of an anno-
tated check-list, plus a wealth of introductory matter, maps, figures
and habitat photographs, covering an individual area within the South-
ern African faunal sub-region. The journal is produced slightly under
A5 size, on good quality paper, in typewriting (like Scopus) .
Four issues have been sent for review: Number 9, Birds of the Crad-
ock District by J. Collett (price R3.00); Number 10, Birds of Mata-
ffin, Eastern Transvaal by D.G. Hall (R3.00); Number 11, Birds of
Kangwane (Mswati District) by P.C. Lawson and J.A. Edmonds (R6.00) ;
Number 12, Birds of Remhoogte (Prince Albert Division) by J.M. and
M.G. Winterbottom (R5.00).
The series can be recommended to anyone visiting the areas covered
56 Reviews and Notices
and also, as models, to those contemplating writing similar accounts
of the birds of other localities in Africa. The issues are obtainable
from Southern Birds, Box 65284, Benmore, 2010 South Africa.
Proceedings of the Second Symposium on African Predatory Birds. J.M.
Mendelsohn and C.W. Sapsford, pp. vi + 254, 170x 249mm, softback.
Available from the Natal Bird Club, c/o Durban Natural History Museum,
Box 4085, Durban, 4000 South Africa. ISBN 0 620 07909 6. Price R22.00.
Consists of 43 papers (18 in abstract only) given in August 1983
covering birds of prey, most of which occur in eastern Africa although
none of the authors was from our area. Useful to those interested in
the group.
Birds of Chembe - a check-list. Phil Gregory. Available from the
author at the Wildlife Conservation Society of Zambia, Box 23484 Kitwe
Zambia. 1984.
A useful 24 pp. A4 cyclostyled (on one side only) annotated list with
a sketch map and introductory remarks covering this 450-ha reserve in
the Copperbelt. A total of 306 species is recorded. Ends with four
pages of black and white drawings of birds by Quentin Allen.
(Reviews by G.C. Backhurst)
NOTICES
COLOUR-RINGED GREENSHANK
A.J. Tree has been colour-ringing Greenshank Tringa nebularia in
southern Africa. The colour rings are on the tibia. Details of any
Sightings should be sent to A.J. Tree, Box 70, Bathurst, Eastern Cape
6166 South Africa, noting the colours and the leg ringed. All letters
will be acknowledged and ringing details forwarded.
ICBP TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS
Deatils have been received of the following four publications from the
International Council for Bird Preservation headquarters in. England.
East African Scopus subscribers will find a leaflet and order form for
these and other ICBP publications in this issue. Readers elsewhere
may order from the ICBP, 219c Huntingdon Road, Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K.
The prices quoted (in sterling) include surface mailing.
Status and conservation of the world's seabirds, edited by J.P. GrOx-
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WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
‘BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al, 1971.
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution. Nairobi:
-EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds, Nairobi:
EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa, Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al. 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa. 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands. London: Academic Press,
= Moreau 1966.
1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems. London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
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Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
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ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
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aay be seen by others.
_ Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
ane 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
BIRDS OF EAST AFRICA
pies of this 270-page book are available from the Secretary, EANHS, Box 44486, Nairobi,
t Stg£8.00 or US$17.00 surface mail to anywhere in the world.
©10AMR EF
ez -
CONTENTS
BAD HOM aE eee ee a a et wae Be ec xe ete ete a rst
PETER LACK. The ecology of the land-birds of Tsavo East National
Park, Kenya. 6. af se Ae Se es ee oo
G. CLARKE. Bird observations from northwest Somalia ...... .
Jjo 7 Ash Midwinter Observations) £~0m! DiyjtbOuci i) yma
Short communications
Reviews
Notices
Addendum
PETER and HAZEL BRITTON. Shoebill Balaeniceps rex:
a deletion from the Kenya avifauna . -. =. = %
N.E. BAKER. Ground nesting of Emerald-spotted Wood
Dove’ fugceur Chalcospilos: fae
A.L. ARCHER. Protective behaviour in a nestling
Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius ...
J.E. MISKELL and J.S. ASH. Gillett's Lark Mirafra
gillecei, new tO Kenyal 52 (5) nnn
Gs CLARKE. Leucisitie Somalal balsds CnC
Printed in Kenya by AMREF, Box 30125, Nairobi
24
43
50
50
52
33)
54
55)
56
49
)
4542. ISSINSOZS 0 S462
TS wa B tee,
“BAL LEISUN I 4a;
OS Py \.
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 9 (3) September 1985
SCOPUS
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues may be combined to allow
for long papers) by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the East African Natural History
Society. Subscriptions are payable to the OS-C Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turner
[tel. 48772] , Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates:
East African residents: KShs 75.00 (KShs 78.50 up-country).
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Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Those
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No. 2852601,
Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd., Market Branch, Box 30018, Nairobi.
The Chairman of the OS-C is Dr D.J. Pearson [house tel. 47041], Department of
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Organizer, Box 24702, Nairobi; N.E. Baker, Box 5272, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; J.S.S.
Beesley (UK); Dr Margaret Carswell, Box 151, Kampala, Uganda; M.A.C. Coverdale [¢el.
Diani 2088], Box 36, Ukunda, via Mombasa; J.H. Fanshawe, GEMS PAC, UNEP, Box 47074,
Nairobi; Mrs Cecilia Gichuki [office tel. 742131/4, 742161/4], Ornithology Section,
National Museums of Kenya, Box 40658, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Box 35064, Dar es
Salaam, Tanzania; Dr W. Karanja, Department of Zoology, University of Nairobi, Box 30197,
Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Department of Geology, University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi;
B.S. Meadows (UK); Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Department of Zoology, University of Makerere,
Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda; J.F. Reynolds (UK); D.K. Richards, Box 24545, Nairobi;
Dr M.E. Smalley, Department of Zoology, University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi;
T. Stevenson, Lake Baringo Club, Box 47557, Nairobi.
NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS -
Scopus welcomes original contributions in English on all aspects of the ornithology of
eastern Africa. Contributions will be assessed by the members of the OS-C and/or by
independent referees. The material published in Scopus is divided into ‘papers’ and ‘short
communications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length. Authors of ‘papers’
are entitled to five copies of their contribution gratis. Extra copies, which will be supplied
at cost, must be ordered when the MS is submitted.
Contributions should be typed in 1% or double spacing on one side of the paper only,
with wide margins all round, and should be submitted in duplicate. Exceptionally clear
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and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is first mentioned, thereafter
only one should be used; they should be those of Birds of East Africa unless the species
does not occur in that work.
Tables, which should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, NOT grouped on
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Scopus 9 (3), September 1985
THE ECOLOGY OF THE LAND-BIRDS OF TSAVO EAST
NATIONAL PARK, KENYA
(continued)
Peter Lack
Kingfishers Alcedinidae
Only two of the six species concern us here. The Striped Kingfisher
Halcyon chelicuti was a resident which occurred fairly commonly
wherever there were large trees with some open ground underneath. It
Was especially common in Riverine where these requirements are most
often met. The Chestnut-bellied H. leucocephala had similar require-
ments, but had a more marked preference for Riverine. When it was
seen elsewhere, it was usually near waterholes. Despite these habitat
preferences I did not see either species feed from the water. The
Chestnut-bellied was markedly seasonal in its occurrence in Tsavo al-
though one or two could usually be found in any month. Some may move
only a short distance. Tennent (1962) found the species around Kitui
(250 km NNW of Voi and 500m higher) between July and September and
again in February and March. It is also known as a longer distance
Migrant, viz. the two ringing recoveries in Kenya in November and
March of birds ringed in Ethiopia in October (Ash 1976).
TABLE 4
Feeding behaviour of two kingfishers Halcyon in Tsavo
H. leucocephala H. chelicuti
Number of items 59 46
Pounce to ground (%) 80 85
Items taken from the air (%) 8 ikal
Items taken with bird in flight (%) 31 41
Height of perch used to
reach for prey (m)* 4.4 + 0.4 (41) Vals ocala. (sib)
Distance flown (m)? 10-2 ,+ Use (38) de 4s 3 27 (30)
‘Perches on trees (%) 76 00 Shee nak
bushes (3) Oe ee Our a>
Feeding rate (items/min) 0.13 Ost2
(13 items) (24 items)
Notes: *Heights and distances are quoted as mean + standard error,
with sample size in parentheses
?7 per cent on electricity wires
Data show that the feeding behaviour of the two kingfishers is very
Similar indeed (Table 4). Both species were usually seen on horizon-
Scopus 9: 57-96, September 1985
58 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
tal branches at the base of tree canopies whence they pounced to the
ground for individual prey items. All prey seen taken where quite
large insects.
Other kingfishers recorded: Brown-hooded H. albiventris, Pygmy Ispid-
ina picta, and two fish-eating species.
Bee-eaters Meropidae
Considerable numbers of large bee-eaters passed high overhead between
late August and October and again in April. Three species were in-
volved, the Eurasian Merops apiaster, Blue-cheeked M. persicus and the
Madagascar M. superciliosus, but they rarely stopped. The Madagascar
Bee-eater did, however, stop at other times and occurred fairly com-
monly in Woodland and Riverine (rarely in other habitats) from Novem-
ber to late March. There is also one certain and one possible breed-
ing record for July and August (see Lack et al. 1980).
The nominate race of M. superciliosus occurs in East Africa from May
to September although some individuals apparently remain at parts of
the coast throughout the year (Britton 1980). Where the birds which
came to Tsavo in November were coming from was uncertain. I suspect
that they came from Somalia following the rain belt south, as is com-
mon with other species. Although Archer & Godman (1961) say that the
species is resident in Somalia, November to March is dry there and it
may be only partially resident. The few Tsavo records in July and
August no doubt refer to the well-known population; this population is
in Madagascar and southeastern Africa from October to March and mi-
grates north at other times. The species is seen extensively on pass-
age in Zambia in April and September (Benson et al. 1973).
The White-throated Bee-eater M. albicollis is another migrant to
Tsavo. It occurred from November to January and again in March and
April, with very few in February. The migrations of this species are
quite well-known. It breeds just south of the Sahara (exceptionally
into southern Kenya) in the northern summer (Snow 1978), and then mi-
grates to spend the non-breeding season in parts of Kenya, Tanzania
and localities further to the west. In Tsavo it occurred only in the
more open habitats and along the edge of Riverine.
The final two species are both small and were resident. The Little
Bee-eater M. pusillus was commonest in Riverine, and when away from
this habitat it was almost always by watercourses or other damp areas.
By contrast, the Somali Bee-eater M. revoilii only occurred in the
Park savanna habitats with woody vegetation and often in very dry
areas. It is another species which has been extending its range south
with the opening up of the habitat (A.D. Forbes-Watson pers. comn.,
Leuthold 1973).
The feeding ecology of the four species is summarized in Table 5.
All species were entirely insectivorous and took the majority of their
food in flight. It was noted that the insects caught were fairly big
but I could not tell whether or not there was a predominance of Hymen-
optera, as recorded in many places (Fry 1972).
59
Tsavo East land-bird ecology
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60 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
The differences between species mainly reflect their habitat and
size differences, the larger species feeding higher in the air, using
higher perches to wait for prey and flying further out to feed. in
particular, the Madagascar Bee-eater used the electricity wires run-
ning parallel to the Nairobi - Mombasa road as perches, and these were
considerably higher than any other perch nearby.
Other species recorded: Carmine M. nubicus.
Rollers Coraciidae
There was only one resident species, the Lilac-breasted Roller Corac-
jas caudata. It occurred in all habitats although it was much com-
moner in Riverine than elsewhere. The Rufous-crowned Roller C. naevia
was much less common, is larger and had similar habitat preferences.
It was, however, a migrant, occurring particularly from April to June.
Brown & Brown (1973) also found an increase in this species at this
time of year, and in the Lilac-breasted, along the Nairobi - Mombasa
road, especially after good rains. Again the birds were of unknown
origin. The final Coracias species is the Eurasian Roller C. garrulus
which, when it was present, was much the commonest of the three. It
occurred in all habitats, but especially the Park savanna habitats. It
‘was rarest in Riverine where the Lilac-breasted was commonest. It ar-
rived with the onset of the rains in November, and became steadily
less common as the northern winter progressed, although during rain,
and during spring migration, some large very loose flocks (up to sev-
eral hundred strong) were seen passing through.
The final species, the Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus is
another species which occurred from November to April although it
appeared in small numbers after unseasonal rain (e.g. September 1976).
This suggests, perhaps, that it does not move far. It was uncommon
and occurred only in Riverine and occasionally near baobab trees.
All four species were primarily insectivorous although they were
seen to take small vertebrates occasionally. The Broad-billed was
very different from the other three though I have few data. It was
usually seen at the top of large bare trees (mean height of 13 birds
seen feeding/searching was PSeim (ese 1.2m). From these it took
insects in the air and only occasionally from the ground. Ground feed-
ing was the predominant feeding method of the other three species,
data for which are given in Table 6. All were very similar. The only
statistically significant difference between any species pair was the
height of perch used by the Eurasian compared with the other two. This
was due largely to the species' habitat preferences and the perch
availability in these habitats. In most cases the species flew out
and ate single items such as large beetles or grasshoppers. All the
rollers were opportunists, however, and capitalized on, for example,
an emergence of flying termites. They were also occasionally seen eat-
ing several termites on one flight to the ground.
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 61
TABLE 6
Feeding behaviour of three rollers Coracias in Tsavo
C. garrulus C. caudata C. naevia
Number of feeding
movements? £1282 104 16
% from ground 9A a9 69
% from air 8 19 25
Height of aerial
capture (m)? 4.2 +.1.9 6. 8.41.8 350 452-2
/7 J£i13 Le
Height of perch used to
search for prey (m)’ 2 ete oe 226/t70.3 Go + 1e2
Ths /67 /9
Distance flown to food (m)?* Aono 2 16.0 + 1.6) 2027 454.7
{72 /65 /9
Feeding rate (items/min)
number of items in 0.16 0.14 0.07
parentheses (42) (51) {8)
Notes: ‘Heights and distances are quoted as mean + standard error
with the sample size after the oblique stroke (/)
In most cases one feeding movement is equivalent to one food
item, but in a few cases the bird flew down to a termite or
ant nest and ate several items before returning. These have
been scored as one feeding movement in this table.
7I also had four records of 'several' birds catching flying
termites in the air. These are not included above.
Hoopoe Upupidae
The African race (africana) of the Hoopoe Upupa epops was fairly com-
mon in thicker habitats between January and July, especially in Wood-
land. It was very rare for the rest of the year and probably migrates
south to southern Tanzania for this period (see Britton 1980).
All 97 food items recorded were insects taken from the ground.
Eighty per cent were from bare ground, often as a result of digging.
It eats a large number of termites as do many ground feeders but what
proportion of the total diet was termite is unknown. It often worked
along termite galleries.
Wood-hoopoes Phoeniculidae
There were two common residents: the Green Wood-hoopoe Phoeniculus
Purpureus occurred only in habitats with trees, particularly Riverine.
The Abyssinian Scimitarbill P.minor is half the size and occurred in
62 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
all habitats with woody vegetation, except Riverine, but was commoner
in the thicker ones.
The feeding behaviour of the two species was very similar. Both fed
mainly by probing twigs, branches and sometimes fallen logs, and ex-
tracting insects from the bark. They sometimes dug extensively into
the bark and pulled off pieces. There is also a major difference in
that the larger Green Wood-hoopoe chose larger branches (Table 7).
Other species recorded: Violet Wood-hoopoe P. granti and Scimitarbill
P. cyanomelas.
TABLE 7
Feeding sites of two wood-hoopoes Phoeniculus
(n = 45 for both species) P. purpureus P. minor
SS SS SS,
Twig/stem diameter 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) - 11
Branch diameter 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) La 23
Main trunk 24 9
Fallen log 11 2
Live wood* ?size 22 20
Dead wood ?size iA 18
Other? 20 18
Notes: a) Figures are percentages
b) Records of feeding and active searching have been included.
Only one record per bird has been scored. If a bird was on more
than one site while being watched, only the first site has been
scored.
c) P. purpureus feeds from larger branches. Taking the first
three sites only, the difference between the species is signifi-
Can't (enw a1 l pices Dy < 0). Oi) ie
*For P. purpureus the 22% is made up of 11% on 'twigs' and 11%
on 'branches'. For P.minor the 20% is made up of 7% on 'twigs
and 13% on ‘branches’.
?For P. purpureus the 20% is made up of 7% from the ground and
13% from unknown sites. For P.minor the 18% is made up of 5%
from the air, 4% from leaves and 9% from unknown sites.
Hornbills Bucerotidae
There were four common species, all in the genus Tockus. Some individ-
uals of all four species were resident, but only the Grey Hornbill T.
nasutus showed no seasonal pattern of occurrence. It occurred most
commonly in Riverine but was also seen in other habitats, and was seen
more often in very dry areas than any of the other species. The Yellow
billed Hornbill Tf. flavirostris showed a slight seasonal peak of abun-
dance in April but was present all the year. It was common in Woodland
and only very few were seen outside this habitat.
The other two species, the Red-billed Tf. erythrorhynchus and Von der
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 63
70
60
= (Sy)
oO (a)
hours
wW
Oo
Nos per 10
ete ee nS
Fig. 2. The seasonal pattern of occurrence of two hornbills in Wood-
land and in other habitats. Solid line: Von der Decken's Tockus deck-
eni in Woodland, and ..... in all other habitats. +. .+ Red-billed
T. erythrorhynchus in Woodland, ande....-.ein all other habitats. Three-
month running means have been calculated (see text).
T. deckeni, were the commonest two. Von der Decken's was, like the
Yellow-billed, very much commoner in Woodland than in any other habi-
tat. The Red-billed was also commonest in Woodland, but was very much
the commonest of the four species in all the other habitats except
Grassland.
The seasonal cycles of abundance of these last two species were al-
most complementary, with the Red-billed being commonest in the wet
seasons and Von der Decken's in the dry season. But this is an over-
Simplification. The data for the two species are shown in Fig. 2 over
the 25 months of the study (calculated as a three-month running mean)
with the birds in Woodland separate from those in all other habitats.
Von der Decken's Hornbill showed a peak of abundance in Woodland co-
inciding with the peak of Commiphora africana fruit. In other habi-
tats there was a slight peak during the wet seasons, but it was always
uncommon in these. The cycles of the Red-billed parallel these very
Closely, but here the cycle in the Park savanna habitats and Riverine
dominates that in Woodland in the total. The peak coincides with the
peak insect abundance. I have no specific evidence to show whether
64 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
there was some seasonal movement from the Park savanna habitats with
Riverine into Woodland in July. A subjective impression of the num-
bers involved suggested that there was some additional movement into
and out of the Tsavo area as a whole.
All four species ate both fruit and insects (Table 8). The Red-
billed was much more insectivorous than the other species and this ex-
plains its broader habitat preferences and the dominance of the ‘other
habitats' in its seasonal cycle. The insects taken by all four were
predominantly from the ground: Red-billed 94 per cent of 175 items
TABLE 8
Food items of four hornbills Tockus in Tsavo
Percentage on
No. of Other Other Unknown
items Fruit Insect plant animal? Unknown
T. erythrorhynchus 748)8) 35 64 1 1 1
T. deckeni 226 69 29 2 - -
T. flavirostris 83 63 Si - = -
T. nasutus 65 69 20 - 8 3
Notes:'Other plant: fT. erythrorhynchus - 1 seed; Tf. deckeni - 1 seed,
5 flowers
?Other animal: fT. erythrorhynchus - 1 lizard; T. nasutus - 3
lizards, 1 frog, 1 egg
where the site of capture was known, Von der Decken's 93 per cent of
55 tems, Yellow-billed 97 per cent of 31 items and Grey 80 per cent of
10 items. The first three, at least, took a large number of termites,
and the Red-billed was seen several times eating termites and beetles
from dung-piles, especially those of elephant and buffalo. The fruits
taken were correlated with habitat preferences. Commiphora spp. ac-
counted for 66 per cent of the fruits taken by Von der Decken's, 83
per cent by Yellow-billed but only 35 per cent by Red-billed.
My few data suggest that the Grey is rather different from the other
three. The insects were all single large items; I did not record it
eating termites and only two individuals were seen eating Commiphora
fruit. Kemp (1973) says it is entirely an insectivore and, further,
that it feeds entirely in the trees.
Other species recorded: Crowned T. alboterminatus, Silvery-cheeked
Bycanistes brevis and Ground Bucorvus cafer.
Barbets Capitonidae
The six common species were all resident and, with the exception of
the two ground barbets Trachyphonus spp., were very restricted in
their habitat preferences to Woodland and/or Riverine. They were all
seen almost invariably in the trees rather than in bushes.
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 65
The Brown-breasted Barbet Lybius melanopterus was only seen in
Riverine forest, and usually at fruiting trees, especially Ficus spp.
Of 77 food items, 90 per cent were fruit. The Spotted-flanked L. lac-
rymosus was similar except for being seen occasionally in Woodland, or
along small watercourses. It differed further in being half the size,
and eating both insects (44 per cent of 66 items) and fruits (56 per
cent). It took 66 per cent of its insects in flight.
The Black-throated Barbet L. melanocephalus was very similar in size
and plumage to the Spotted-flanked but it was almost restricted to
Woodland, not Riverine, and ate fruits almost exclusively (97 per cent
of 91 items of which 78 per cent were Commiphora). The Red-fronted
Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus, half the size of the previous two
species, occurred rarely in both Woodland and Riverine and ate pre-
dominantly fruits (87 per cent of 37 items).
The two ground barbets fTrachyphonus are very different structually
from the other barbets. D'Arnaud's Barbet T. darnaudii occurred quite
commonly in the thicker habitats although it was very rare in River-
ine. The Red-and-Yellow Tf. erythrocephalus was more widespread still,
occurring in all habitats except Grassland. In contrast to the other
barbets, these two fed in the bushes or on the ground, and not in
trees. The Red and Yellow was primarily an insectivore (83 per cent
of 29 items); indeed the only bird seen eating fruit was one eating
Salvadora persica in a bush which was laden at the time. All the in-
sects were termites taken from the ground. D'Arnaud's ate both in-
sects (55 per cent of 77 items) and fruits (45 per cent). All the
insects were from the ground, and in all but one case (ants) they
were termites.
Other species recorded: White-headed Lybius leucocephalus, Black-
collared L. torquatus, Red-fronted L. leucomelas and Golden-rumped
Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus.
Honeyguides Indicatoridae
The Black-throated Honeyguide Indicator indicator was rare south of
the Galana River and occurred mainly in Woodland. North of the river
it was slightly commoner. The Lesser Honeyguide I. minor was uncommon
in Woodland and Riverine. It was probably resident but was noted more
often in the wet seasons, probably due to its calling more then.
Other species recorded: Scaly-throated Honeyguide I. variegatus.
Woodpeckers Picidae
All three species recorded were fairly common residents at least in
some habitats. The Nubian Campethera nubica was the commonest and
most widespread. It occurred wherever there were trees or large dead
stumps. The Cardinal Dendropicos fuscescens had similar habitat pref-
erences but was much less common. The Bearded Thripias namagquus only
occurred where there were large trees and therefore it was largely
confined to Riverine.
66 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
All three species seemed to be
typical woodpeckers, habitually
searching twigs and branches for in-
sects. I have very few records of
birds capturing food items. The data
for the size of twigs and branches on
which birds were seen actively
searching for food are shown in Fig 3
and show that the size of branch
closely parallels the size of the
bird: median diameter for the Car-
dinal (weight 25 g) was 1.6cm, for
the Nubian (59 g) 3.0cm, and for the
Bearded (82 g) it was 11.4cm.
D
[o)
.
(=)
of records
Larks Alaudidae
There were four regular Mirafra and
two regular Eremopterix species. The
two commonest Mirafra species were
both resident with the Pink-breasted
Lark M. poecilosterna one of the most
widespread birds in the area. It was
very common in all the Park savanna
habitats but only occurred in Wood-
land where there were few bushes
under the trees. It was not seen in
Riverine. With these preferences it
ELGG sau) hewitt Ser lbpuUcron ior is probable that the species has be-
twig/branch size searched by come much commoner with the opening
three woodpeckers: a) Cardinal up of the habitat. The Red-winged
Dendropicos fuscescens (n = 44),|Bush Lark M. hypermetra is much
b) Nubian Campethera nubica (n=|larger. It occurred primarily in
36), c) Bearded Thripias nama- Grassland although it seemed to re-
guus (n = ll) quire a few dead sticks for use as
— SS’ Song ‘posts. Lt c¢eupecd set seamen
Park savanna habitats, though it was much less common there.
nN
(ao)
%
5 10 15 20 25
Twig size (cm)
The status of the other two Mirafra species is in some doubt. This
is due mainly to identification problems, especially early in my
study. Both species, the Singing Bush Lark M. cantillans and Fried-
mann's Bush Lark M. pulpa, occurred regularly from December to Feb-
ruary with some remaining till May. A few individuals of either or
both (I could only reliably distinguish them when they were singing)
were found at other times but most seemed to have moved away. The
Singing Bush Lark is certainly migratory in some parts of its range
(Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957) and it and Friedmann's have come to the
lights of Ngulia Safari Lodge in Tsavo West in November and December,
suggesting that they both move at night (Backhurst & Pearson 1977). In
December 1976 a Red-winged Bush Lark also came to the lights there at
night (G.C. Backhurst pers. comm.).
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 67
The Singing Bush Lark had very similar habitat preferences to the
Red-winged but was less common. Friedmann's was found most commonly
in Bushed Grassland and more were seen in the western half of the
Park, where there was a higher grass cover, than in the more eastern
parts. Most of the unidentified individuals between May and November
were in Grassland which suggests that most were probably Singing Bush
Larks, not Friedmann's.
All individuals of the four species which were seen feeding were on
the ground, and they seemed to take both seeds and insects. My data
record Red-winged Bush Lark eating 32 items - 47 per cent insect, rest
unidentified; Pink-breasted Lark 60 items - 47 per cent insect, rest
unidentified; the Singing Bush Lark was seen to take a single flying
insect. The stomach of one Friedmann's Bush Lark collected in Tsavo
East contained both seeds and insects (Lack 1977). This last paper
also contains many more details of this species, with comparative
notes on the others.
The Chestnut-headed Sparrow Lark Eremopterix signata was found fair-
ly commonly in the three most open habitats with a few in Bushland and
Wooded Bushland. I did not record it in Woodland or Riverine. The
species was not recorded before 1965 and it has evidently replaced
Fischer's Sparrow Lark E. leucopareia which was fairly common in the
early 1960s (D.A. Turner pers. comm.) , presumably again due to the
Opening up of the habitat. The other Eremopterix, the Chestnut-backed
E. leucotis was less common and restricted to Grassland and Bushed
Grassland.
120
4 il \
aa uv ~~ at “| k
ORN iD See CAtre My oo de WAL Sok Si Nu 6 D
1976
Fig. 4. The seasonal occurrence of two species of sparrow lark: solid
line Chestnut-headed Eremopterix signata, pecked line Chestnut-backed
E. leucotis
The Chestnut-backed Sparrow Lark occurred only in flocks and soon
after rain (Fig. 4). The Chestnut-headed was also in flocks except
when breeding (April) but was rather erratic in its appearances. Many
were seen in April and May 1975, September and October 1975, February
68 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
1976 and May to September 1976 with relatively few at other times (see
Fig. 4). The species evidently wanders a good deal, though some in-
dividuals are resident in some areas (Britton 1980). Both these birds
are thought to be largely granivorous although the Chestnut-headed was
seen taking insects to its young in the nest on three occasions.
Other species recorded: Flappet Lark Mirafra rufocinnamomea, Fischer's
Sparrow Lark Eremopterix leucopareia.
Drongos Dicruridae
The Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis was one of the most widespread birds in
the Tsavo area. It was resident and common in all habitats with trees
especially Woodland. It was less common in Bushland and much less in
Grassland and Bushed Grassland. It was insectivorous and predominant-
ly a flycatcher taking 71 per cent of 363 items in the air, 20 per
cent from the ground and 8 per cent from leaves in bushes or trees. In
all, 85 per cent of items were taken while the bird) was) in, f£lvehe eithe
average height above the ground of the perches used to wait for prey
was 4°6m (see, = 0.5, mn = 124)),) and) the bi ndy vem some 9.3m (se. .—
0.8, n = 109) to the food items. Lt was) cftenjseen following large
mammals taking insects disturbed by them.
Orioles Oriolidae
The Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus was a resident in Woodland
and Riverine and occurred rarely in other habitats with trees. The
Golden Oriole O.oriolus had very similar habitat preferences al- —
though was commoner in Wooded and Bushed Grassland. It is a Palae-
TABLE 9
Feeding behaviour of two orioles Oriolus in Tsavo
a TE
O. oriolus O. larvatus
a
Number of items 53) 41
per centage insects’ AS, 3y
per centage of insects taken off leaves Qe 80
per centage of total food items taken
while bird was in flight 2 24
Height of feeding (m)? 8.8) 4/058 6.8 + 1.0
(18) (15)
a EEE SIEDUnIISIEEEDUURIE
Notes: ‘All items that were not insect were fruit
2Height is given as mean + standard error with the sample size
in parentheses. The difference between the two species is not
significant; t = 1.56 with df 31, N.S.
iD
arctic migrant and occurred from October to April. It was one of the
few migrants to arrive before the rains (lack.1983)~
Both species were seen to eat both fruit and insects and almost en-
tirely in trees. Table 9 gives some data on their feeding behaviour
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 69
and shows that here, as in habitat preferences, there seemed to be al-
most no differences between the two species. Furthermore the two are
almost the same size.
Other species recorded: African Golden Oriole O. auratus.
Crows Corvidae
The Pied Crow Corvus albus was fairly common in Voi town but was only
very rarely recorded inside the Park boundary. The White-necked Raven
C.albicollis was similar but ranged a little further from the town.
Neither species was important in the ecology of the Park, and both
appeared to be largely dependent on man for their food, whether it was
his rubbish, or carcasses of animals killed by vehicles on the main
road. These carcasses were left to the two crows and the Black Kite
Milvus migrans, which had a very similar distribution, whereas 'natu-
ral' carcasses in the Park were left almost entirely to the vultures
and the Marabou Leptoptilos crumeniferus.
Other species recorded: Indian House Crow Corvus splendens.
Tits and Penduline Tits Paridae and Remizidae
The Grey Tit Parus afer and the Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit Remiz
musculus were both rare residents in Woodland and other thick hab-
itats. They were mostly seen in the northern area.
Other species recorded: Whité-bellied Tit Parus albiventris.
Babblers Timaliidae
Both the Scaly Chatterer Turdoides aylmeri and the Rufous Chatterer
T. rubiginosus were usually seen in noisy groups of about five, moving
Slowly through thick bushes within one metre of the ground. Neither
Was common. I have no data but both species are thought to be en-
tirely insectivorous and feed on or near the ground.
The Scaly Chatterer was a resident in Woodland, especially the
thicker parts, and was also seen, but more rarely, in Bushland and
Wooded Bushland. The Rufous Chatterer was rarely seen in Riverine
and very rarely elsewhere.
Cuckoo Shrikes Campephagidae
The one species, the Black Cuckoo Shrike Campephaga flava, was rare in
Woodland, Riverine and, in the northern area only, in other thick hab-
itats. More were seen from December to May than at other times (27,
cf. 3 in censuses) indicating that it was mainly a migrant or wanderer
to Tsavo. It fed mainly on insects taken from leaves (81 per cent of
21 items) and many were taken while the bird was in flight (67 per
cent).
Bulbuls Pycnonotidae
Both the Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus and the North-
ern Brownbul Phyllastrephus strepitans were much more often heard than
seen. They were both fairly common residents, but only in Woodland
and Riverine. The Common Bulbul Pynonotus barbatus, of which the
70 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
distinctive race dodsoni occurs, was a resident and more widespread
than the other two. It was commonest in Woodland and Riverine, but
occurred regularly in all habitats except Bushed Grassland and Grass-
land. All three species spent much of their time inside thickets. The
Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul was only seen eating fruits (19 items) and
the Northern Brownbul only insects (45 items). The latter stayed very
low down (mean height of feeding = 1.2m(s.e. = 0.2m, n = 19)) taking
insects from leaves (70 per cent), stems (9 per cent), the ground (6
per cent) or the air (7 per cent). The Common Bulbul ate insects (14
per cent of 139 items), fruit (72 per cent) and flowers (14 per cent).
Despite their habitat preferences the Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul and
Common Bulbul were only rarely seen eating Commiphora fruit (25 per
cent of the fruits eaten by each), and for both species much of the
fruit taken was from bushes not trees.
Other species recorded: Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flavi-
ventris and Nicator Nicator chloris. ;
Thrushes and Chats Turdidae
There were eleven regular species of which seven were Palaearctic mi-
grants. Three of the four Afrotropical species were resident and oc-
curred only in the thicker habitats, although none was in Riverine.
The Bare-eyed Thrush Turdus tephronotus was fairly common in Woodland
but very rare outside this habitat. The Spotted Morning Thrush Cich-
ladusa guttata was very rare in censuses and only seen in Woodland.
It always remained in the middle of the thicker bushes. The White-
browed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys was the commonest of the
three. It was fairly common in Woodland, Wooded Bushland and Bushland
with some in thickets in other habitats. The final Afrotropical
species, the Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata, was an uncommon visi-
tor to open habitats, mainly from March to June.
Among the seven Palaearctic migrants there are similar sized potent-
ial competitors for all these four Afrotropical species. However,
only for the Capped Wheatear, for which there are three, and the
White-browed Scrub Robin (one) are these migrants congeneric. The Rock
Thrush Monticola saxatilis is of similar size to the Bare-eyed Thrush
but it occurred primarily in the open habitats. It was commonest in
December and January but was present from November and stayed until
late March.
The Irania Irania gutturalis and Sprosser Luscinia luscinia were
very similar in all respects to the Spotted Morning Thrush. Both oc-
curred in thick bushes primarily in Woodland and both were present
throughout November to April although there were fewer in January and
February than the other months.
The Rufous Bush Chat Cercotrichas galactotes was the only one of
these Palaearctic migrants to meet a fairly common resident congener,
the White-browed Scrub Robin. The habitat preferences of the two over-
lapped considerably, but the Rufous Bush Chat was more widespread in
the open habitats. It was common all through the northern winter from
November to March.
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 71
The three Palaearctic Oenanthe species are unlikely to compete seri-
ously with the Capped Wheatear as this was relatively very much
scarcer. However, it is possible that the Palaearctic species delay
the arrival of the Capped as it arrived in Tsavo mainly after the Pal-
aearctic ones had left. The three Palaearctic wheatears, although
superficially very similar, had rather different habitat preferences
from each other. The Pied O. pleschanka was commonest in Wooded and
Bushed Grassland and Wooded Bushland, the Northern O. oenanthe mainly
in Bushed Grassland, Wooded and Bushed Woodland and Bushland, and the
Isabelline O. isabellina was much commoner in Grassland and Bushed
Grassland than in other habitats. The Isabelline and Pied occurred
commonly from November to March but the Northern arrived earlier. It
was one of the few migrants to appear before the rains with a few seen
at the end of September. It also largely disappeared by the end of
February which was four to six weeks earlier than most other Palae-
arctic migrants (see Lack 1983).
All the thrushes and chats fed to a large extent from the ground.
Most ate many termites. I have no data for the Bare-eyed Thrush or
Spotted Morning Thrush and very few for the Capped Wheatear, Irania or
Sprosser. As suggested above, the Spotted Morning Thrush, Irania and
Sprosser probably fed from inside the thick bushes and not in the
Open. The White-browed Scrub Robin took 98 per cent of 46 recorded
items from the ground and the Rufous Bush Chat 92 per cent of 165
items. Subjectively, the scrub robin took food mainly from the litter
near bushes and the Rufous Bush Chat from bare ground, and it was also
prepared to venture further from bushes. This difference is probably
related to the species' habitat preferences.
The Rock Thrush fed while running along the ground (ground gleaning)
and by pouncing to the ground from elevated perches like the rollers
Coracias spp. Unlike the rollers though, it usually ate several items
often running a few metres between each, before returning to its
perch. Of the 116 items recorded 96 per cent were taken from the
ground, 27 pounces to the ground were noted, on 13 of which the bird
took several items before returning.
Data on the feeding behaviour of the three Palaearctic wheatears are
given in Table 10. The Northern and Isabelline took their food almost
exclusively from the ground whereas the Pied took a third from the
air. The major difference between the first two can be seen in the
last line of the table, and concerns the method of catching prey. The
Isabelline spent most of its feeding time actually on the ground run-
ning about, whereas the Northern (and Pied) spent a considerable time
sitting on elevated perches waiting for prey to become visible. This
feeding method may be related to the size of prey taken. Those wait-
ing for prey from an elevated perch should tend to move out only for
the larger prey items. The Capped Wheatear seemed to be an ‘'average'
wheatear with 5 of 10 items taken from the ground and 5 from the air.
These data on the feeding behaviour of wheatears agree in many re-
spects with those of Cornwallis (1975). working in Iran. He also found
22 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
TABLE 10
Feeding behaviour of three wheatears Oenanthe in Tsavo
O. pleschanka O. oenanthe O. isabellina
Number of items 100 201 268
Percentage on herbage/ground 64 7 94
Percentage in air 30 2 4
Percentage in bushes 6 1 1
Number of items on ground/herbage
herbage 64 194 293
Number of movements to the
ground from perch? 38 (59 per 72 (37%) 21 (8%)
cent of ground
feeds)
Notes: No feeding records of O.oenanthe and O. isabellina before
1 July 1975 are included
*see text
the difference between the Northern and Isabelline noted above but in
Iran all 37 items seen taken by the Pied Wheatear were from the groun&
and none were from the air.
Other species recorded: Red-tailed Chat Cercomela familiaris, Eastern
Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata, White-browed Robin
Chat Cossypha heuglini, Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos, Red-tailed
Ant Thrush Neocossyphus rufus, Whinchat Saxicola rubetra and Cliff
Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris.
Warblers Sylviidae
A total of 30 species and one probable have been recorded in Tsavo
East (Lack et al. 1980), but only ten (six breeding in the Palacarctre
and four in the Afrotropics) can be considered common. A further seven
(three Palaearctic and four Afrotropical) were regular in some habit-
ats at certain times.
The four common Afrotropical species were all rather different from
each other. The Grey Wren Warbler Camaroptera simplex was a resident
in Bushland, Wooded Bushland and Woodland with only very few (10 per
cent of 106 birds in censuses) in other habitats. It fed on insects
on or near the ground in thick bushes, like a variety of other African
species, notably the bush shrikes Malaconotidae (q.v.), it is, how-
ever, considerably smaller than any of these. See Table 11 and below.
The Northern Crombec Sylvietta brachyura was a common resident in
Woodland and Wooded Bushland. It was rarer in other habitats but was
not seen in Grassland or, inexplicably, Riverine. It looked, fed and
behaved very like a nuthatch Sitta sp. It walked and ran along
branches and twigs, usually horizontal ones, taking insects from the
bark (78 per cent of 80 recorded items).
-Tsavo East land-bird ecology 73
The Ashy Cisticola Cisticola cinereola was present all the year in
open habitats, especially Grassland and Bushed Grassland. It was seen
usually in thick grass but I have no data to show that it fed there.
The Tiny Cisticola C. nana occurred rarely in the more open parts of
Woodland and in a few isolated areas of the Park savanna habitats
where there were large trees with open ground underneath. It was pres-
ent all the year. It fed almost entirely from the ground where there
was some grass with bare patches in between (62 per cent of 21 items
from grass, 24 per cent from bare ground).
Four more Afrotropical species were regular though rare. These are
the Desert Cisticola C.aridula - in Grassland and most obvious in the
wet seasons, but may be resident; the Red-fronted Warbler Spiloptila
rufifrons, in Bushland; Yellow-vented Eremomela Eremomela flavicriss-
alis, in the more open parts of Woodland and the Yellow-breasted
Apalis Apalis flavida, mainly in Woodland and seen only between May
and October (see below).
The timing of the movements of the Palaearctic warblers and some of
their ecology are described by Lack (1983). For the first winter of
the study (1974-75) I had great difficulty distinguishing the two
common Hippolais species and some individuals in the 1975-76 winter
were Similarly not positively identified. In all only about half the
Hippolais individuals were identified and the data given here refer
only to those birds. Of the two species, Upcher's Warbler Hippolais
languida is slightly larger. It occurred sparsely in all habitats
except Grassland and Riverine. The Olivaceous Warbler H. pallida was
common in Woodland and especially Riverine but was very rare in other
habitats. Upcher's also arrived and reached peak numbers about a
month after the Olivaceous (median test on 1975-76, X* = 6.0, df 1,
P <0.05) though both species left about the same time. Both were un-
usual in being at peak numbers during the dry season (February to
March) - see below and Lack (1983).
The two Sylvia species parallel the two Hippolais in some respects.
The Barred Warbler S.nisoria is the larger, was more widespread over
the habitats, and arrived and showed peak numbers about a month after
the Whitethroat S. communis (median test x? = 13, df 1, P<0.001). The
Whitethroat had a preference for habitats with trees, though not Riv-
erine, and the Barred was equally common in all habitats except Bushed
Grassland and Grassland, but including Riverine.
The final two are the Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris and the
Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus. Both were commonest in habit-
ats with trees but the Willow Warbler was much rarer in Riverine. The
Marsh Warbler may be largely a passage migrant, being grounded only
by adverse weather conditions. It occurred in December and January,
with a few in April. The Willow Warbler was as common in spring
(April) as in autumn (December) and there was also a small passage in
October.
Data on the feeding behaviour of these six species and two of the
Afrotropical ones are given in Table i1. The table shows that all fed
Tsavo East land-bird ecology
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Tsavo East land-bird ecology 75
predominantly from leaves, though the Upcher's took much from twigs
and the Willow Warbler some from the air, but there were very few
leaves in the bushes when the Upcher's Warbler was commonest, in March.
Among the six Palaearctic species, three fed mainly in the trees, one
mainly in the bushes and two in both. Interestingly, the one bush
feeder, the Whitethroat, had a preference for those habitats with
trees. Among the tree feeders the Willow Warbler stands out: it was
found at the edge of the canopy and not inside it. The Marsh Warbler
is an interesting species because, in most areas where it has been
studied, it occurs in grass and thickets, e.g. in Europe where it
breeds (Voous 1960), and in Zambia (Benson et al. 1973). MThickets are
present but reeds and rank grass are rare in Tsavo.
With six common Palaearctic species present at some periods it is
- pertinent to ask if any come into potential competition with Afrotrop-
ical species. The fact that only four Afrotropical species were fairly
common may itself be indicative. As noted above, three of the four
were obviously different from all the Palaearctic species, the North-
ern Crombec and Tiny Cisticola by their feeding methods (bark and
ground respectively), and the Ashy Cisticola by its habitat prefer-
ences (many in Grassland and Bushed Grassland) and presumed feeding
Site (grass). Data on the fourth common Afrotropical species, the Grey
Wren Warbler, and the Yellow-breasted Apalis are also given in Table
11. As can be seen, the only Palaearctic species which was similar to
the Grey Wren Warbler was the Whitethroat, but most of the Grey Wren
Warbler's food came from twigs or the herbage and ground, and not from
the leaves. The Grey Wren Warbler also fed lower down (d = 3.5, df 62
P<0.001).
There was some evidence for the Palaearctic species excluding the
Yellow-breasted Apalis. The latter's feeding behaviour appeared very
Similar to an ‘average’ Palaearctic warbler, and it was most similar
to the two Sylvia species. However, as noted above, it was only seen
between May and October (ten separate occasions, not all in censuses).
The other three regular though rare Palaearctic species were the
Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus which occurred mainly in the
spring in reedy margins or bushes near water, the Basra Reed Warbler
A. griseldis which occurred in both spring (April) and autumn (Decem-
ber) especially in the Voi River vegetation and thickets in Woodland,
and the Garden Warbler Sylvia borin which occurred in thick bushes in
December and January.
It seems that, as a family, the warblers have been more subject to
changes in status and occurrence over the last twenty years than most
other families of birds, and it appears that these changes have been
largely due to the habitat changes noted at the beginning of this
paper. The Yellow-breasted Apalis, Red-fronted Warbler, Buff-bellied
Warbler Phyllolais pulchella, Somali Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta
isabellina and Banded Parisoma Parisoma boehmi, all formerly occurred
quite widely, particularly in Acacia trees around 1959-60 (A.D.Forbes-
Watson pers. comm.) but are rare or nearly absent now.
76 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
Other species recorded: Afrotropical: Lesser Swamp Warbler Acroceph-
alus gracilirostris, Moustached Warbler Sphenoeacus mentalis, Rattling
Cisticola Cisticola chiniana, Winding Cisticola C. galactotes, Tawny-
flanked Prinia Prinia subflava, Pale Prinia P. somalica, Grey-backed
Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura; Palaearctic migrants: River Warbler
Locustella fluviatilis, Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus, Great
Reed Warbler A. arundinaceus and Olive-tree Warbler Hippolais olive-
torum.
Flycatchers Muscicapidae
Two Muscicapinae, three Platysteirinae and one Monarchinae were reg-
ular in Tsavo. Of the Muscicapinae the Grey Flycatcher Bradornis
microrhynchus was an uncommon resident in the thicker habitats, espec-
ially in Woodland. It was not seen in Riverine. The Spotted Fly-
catcher from the Palaearctic was common in Tsavo from November to the
‘end of March in all habitats with trees (98 per cent of 500 seen in
censuses), especially Riverine. The Grey Flycatcher fed mainly by
pouncing to the ground and the Spotted mainly took insect in the air,
usually close to vegetation (Table 12).
TABLE 12
Feeding behaviour of two Muscicapine flycatchers in Tsavo
Muscicapa Bradornis
striata microrhynchus
Number of items 373 7%
Per cent in air 74 i5
Per cent off twigs 4 7
Per cent off leaves 9 7
Per cent off ground Pi dae
Per cent with bird in flight 89 2p
Per cent taken by pouncing 6 69
(I EE,
All three Platysteirinae are in the genus Batis and all were probab-
ly resident although none was common. The Black-headed Batis Batis
minor was almost restricted to Riverine. It was occasionally seen in
Woodland and along smaller watercourses. The Chin-spot Batis B. mol-
itor was confined to Woodland and the Pygmy Batis B. perkeo occurred
rarely in all habitats with trees, except Riverine. All three fed in
a similar fashion, usually making short flights within a tree to take
insects from the vegetation (Table 13). Because of their habitat pref-
erences though, only the Chin-spot and Pygmy met, and only in Wood-
land.
The only Monarchinid, the Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis,
was an uncommon visitor to Woodland and Riverine from November to May,
although there were fewer in January and February. Its feeding
methods were a combination of those of the Spotted Flycatcher and the
Batis species (50 per cent of 16 items from the air, 37 per cent from
the vegetation, 13 per cent from the ground). It appeared to remain
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 77
well inside the vegetation.
TABLE 13
Feeding behaviour of three flycatchers Batis in Tsavo
Ree Br tans B. minor B. molitor B. perkeo
Number of items 45 49 49
Per cent in air 24 14 14
Per cent off leaves 53 69° 55
Per cent off twig/stem 18 14 Sil
Per cent with bird in flight on 100 100
Per cent inside the vegetation 73) 81 50
(n) (17) (16) (14)
Per cent just inside 53 13 2A
Per cent at edge 18 6 PX
Height of feeding (m) Ss): 4.8 3.4
standard error 0.9 OES 0.6
(n) (20) (20) (15)
Note:
a) 62 per cent of these were recorded as from the underside, 3
per cent from the upper surface and 35 per cent unspecified
Other species recorded: Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens, Lead-
coloured Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus, Southern Black Flycatcher
Melaenornis pammelaina, Pale Flycatcher Bradornis pallidus.
Pipits and wagtails Motacillidae
Two wagtails were fairly common locally but not in areas which were
censused. The African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aquimp was a resident in
the open areas beside rivers, but not in Riverine as defined here, and
around buildings. The Palaearctic Yellow Wagtail M. flava, of one or
more subspecies, occurred between November and April in short grass
(‘lawn') areas especially in the compound of Aruba Lodge. Both wag-
tails were seen feeding on insects captured on or near the ground.
Of the Anthus pipits Richard's A. novaeseelandiae was the most often
seen, but it was only a sporadic visitor between November and April.
The Pangani Longclaw Macronyx aurantiigula was fairly common all the
year but was more often seen in the wet seasons. It was always in
areas with a high grass cover, especially Grassland. The Golden Pipit
Tmetothylacus tenellus was common in all the Park savanna habitats and
rarely occurred elsewhere. A few could be seen at any time of year
but numbers increased enormously with the onset of the rains in Nov-
ember. At the start of the wet season this species in particular
could be very localized to areas which had had rain. The Pangani
Longclaw was usually seen in thick grass although both the insects I
Saw taken were in the air about 1m up. The Golden Pipit was a ground
feeder but was more catholic in its choice of substrate than the long-
claw, feeding off the herbage and at times even from bare ground.
Other species recorded: Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea, Plain-backed
Pipit Anthus leucophrys, Tree Pipit A. trivialis, Red-throated Pipit
A. cervinus.
78 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
Bush Shrikes Malaconotidae
There were ten regular species though very few were common. There was
a pair of species in each of four genera, all of which were super-
ficially similar in ecology, and two other species which were rather
separate. All those for which I have data were entirely insectivorous
except for the occasional instance of birds eating fruits, but they
only did this when the fruits were abundant.
The Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla was resident, but more
often seen in the wet seasons. It occurred only in Riverine, espec-
ially the thicker parts. It spent its time mainly in trees (mean
height of feeding 7.4m, standard error 1.3, n = 7) in contrast to the
other Dryoscopus, Pringle's Puffback D. pringlii, which fed in the
bushes (height of feeding 2.2m, standard error 0.4, n = 8). This
species too had different habitat preferences; it was a rare bird in
Woodland and was commoner in the northern area.
The Black-headed Tchagra Tchagra senegala was an uncommon resident
in the thickest parts of Woodland. It appeared to remain almost ex-
clusively within thickets. The Three-streaked Tchagra T. jamesi was a
regular resident in Bushland, Wooded Bushland and Woodland and some-
times elsewhere in thick bushes. It was always low down and often in
thickets - mean height of feeding 0.3m, standard error 0.1, n= 8.
The Tropical Boubou Laniarius ferrugineus was only recorded during
and soon after the wet seasons in the Voi River Forest. The Slate-
coloured Boubou L. funebris was a common resident in Woodland and in
thick bushes along watercourses but not in the Voi River Forest. It
was usually seen low down in thickets and was also seen eating Comm-
iphora fruits at times.
Both Malaconotus species were rare though both are very elusive.
Both were more often heard than seen. Unlike the other pairs these
two are very different in size. The Sulphur-breasted Bush Shrike M.
sulfureopectus was recorded in Woodland and only very occasionally
outside. The Grey-headed Bush Shrike M. blanchoti was resident in
both Woodland and Riverine. Both species were usually seen in trees
(mean height of feeding for the Grey-headed 5.7m, standard error 1.4,
n = 8; no feeding data for the Sulphur-breasted).
Finally two species which are very different from all the others in
the family: the Brubru Nilaus afer was an uncommon resident in habi-
tats with trees, except for Riverine. It fed by taking insects, most-
ly from leaves (30 per cent of 33 items) or twigs (42 per cent) mostly
while perched (79 per cent). It was usually in trees (mean height
6.5m, standard error 0.6, n = 20). The Rosy-patched Shrike Rhodo-
phoneus cruentus was a resident, primarily, but not exclusively in
areas with bushes but no trees. It fed mainly while running along the
ground picking insects from bare ground or grass (92 per cent of 50
items). It was usually seen within 5m of bushes and where there was
some grass and not in large areas of bare ground.
Other species recorded: Brown-headed Tchagra Tchagra australis, Red-
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 79
naped Bush Shrike Laniarius ruficeps, Four-coloured Bush Shrike Malac-
onotus quadricolor.
Shrikes Laniidae
Five fairly common species occurred, all in the genus Lanius. A sixth
species, the White-crowned Shrike EFurocephalus rueppelli, a member of
the Prionopidae, is also included here as it is much more similar in
ecology to the Lanius species than the other two helmet shrikes (q.v.)
Three of the group are Palaearctic migrants: the Lesser Grey Shrike
Lanius minor only occurred on spring passage in April in all habitats
except Riverine. The Red-backed Shrike L.collurio occurred predom-
inantly in April although it was also present in small numbers in
December and January (Fig.5). It occurred in all habitats though it
was very rare in Grassland. The Red-tailed Shrike L. isabellinus was
40
per 10 AOUTS _,
(eo) fa)
Nos
ee Ae Su On INGO esl Ms Ay Muppet JA 8 Se Oh Nie D
1975 1976
Fig. 5. The seasonal occurrence of two species of shrike in Tsavo:
solid line Red-tailed Shrike Lanius isabellinus, pecked line Red-
backed Shrike L.collurio
common in all habitats. It occurred from the onset of the rains in
November till the end of March when it disappeared rather abruptly
(Fig. 5). This departure coincided with the arrival of the Red-backed
(a form which has been considered conspecific with the Red-tailed). It
is not simply a question of replacement though, as the two species
differ slightly in both their habitat preferences (Red-tailed much
commoner in the open habitats) and feeding ecology (see below).
80 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
The two Afrotropical Lanius species also had different habitat pref-
erences from each other. The Taita Fiscal Lanius dorsalis was a com-
mon resident in all the Park savanna habitats, especially the open
ones. The Lond-tailed Fiscal L.cabanisi was much rarer. It was ap-
parently in similar habitats but was always in the lusher areas near
to watercourses or other damp parts and not on the open dry plains.
It too was resident and was usually seen in small groups rather than
as Singles or pairs. The White-crowned Shrike was a common resident
in the thicker habitats, especially Wooded Bushland and Woodland.
All six species fed mainly by pouncing to the ground from a promin-
ent perch. Data on their feeding behaviour are given in Table 14. All
were very Similar. In general, the two smallest, the Red-backed and
the Red-tailed, perched on lower bushes and flew out less far than the
others, and the largest, the Long-tailed Fiscal, did not flycatch. The
White-crowned Shrike took a higher proportion of its food in the air
than any of the others except the Lesser Grey and Red-backed. But
these two were only commonly present in April, the second wet season,
when flying insects were more common.
Helmet Shrikes Prionopidae
Three species occurred but the White-crowned Shrike has already been
discussed above. The two other species were common residents, though
very restricted in their habitat preferences. Retz's Helmet Shrike
Prionops retzii was seen only in Riverine and the Helmet Shrike P.
Plumata largely in Woodland with a very few in other habitats. Both
species, and the White-crowned Shrike, usually occurred in groyps of
five or six and all have been shown to be co-operative breeders (see
review in Grimes 1976).
Feeding data for the two Prionops are given in Table 15 (p. 82).
Both species were usually seen moving slowly through the vegetation
at the base of the tree canopy taking insects, particularly off twigs
and branches. The difference between the species' feeding height is
due mainly to the difference in tree canopy height in the preferred
habitat of each species.
Starlings Sturnidae
A total of twelve species has been recorded and, although six were un-
common none was rare. The Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio oc-
curred in the Park on rocky hills. However, numbers in censuses were
mainly during an influx into Woodland in August and September 1975,
apparently in response to the abundance of Commiphora fruit at that
time. Rippell's Long-tailed Glossy Starling Lamprotornis purpuropter-
us was fairly common along the Tiva River and in some other parts of
the northern area. It was very rare south of the Galana River. The
Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster was a rare visitor,
mainly to Woodland between late March and September. The Magpie Star-
ling Speculipastor bicolor was a sporadic visitor in flocks to thicker
habitats; I saw them mostly in the northern area but there was an in-
flux into the southern area in November and December 1976. Hilde-
brandt's Starling Spreo hildebrandti was a sporadic visitor singly to
81
Tsavo East land-bird ecology
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82 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
TABLE 15
Feeding behaviour of two helmet shrikes Prionops in Tsavo
P. plumata P. retzii
a lm a aa a
Number of items 76° 46
1 fruit, rest insect all insect
Per cent from air 16 13
Per cent off twigs/stem 41 26
Per cent off branches/trunk 9 37
Per cent off leaves 9 15
Per cent off ground 19 MR;
Per cent from other sources 6 : 0
Per cent when perched 32 33
Per cent when hovering 11 30
Per cent in flight? 49 35
Per cent pounce to ground 5) 2
Per cent unknown 3 0
Height of feeding (m), + standard error, (n) 3.0, 0.4 5.0, 0.8
(56) (29)
Notes:
a) I have scored as one item (rather than five) each of three
birds which pounced to the ground and then ate several ter-
mites, as in each case only one movement was involved.
b) These are where the bird snatched an insect in passing with-
out a significant pause.
any area. Shelley's Starling Spreo shelleyi was fairly common in
parts of the northern area but much less so in the southern, although
in all areas it often occurred in flocks of up to fifty. Of these six
species the Violet-backed and Magpie Starlings appeared to be more
frugivorous than the others and the two Spreo species and Rippell's
Long-tailed more insectivorous, but all probably eat both.
From an ecological point of view the six commoner species can be di-
vided into three singles and a group of three.
The Blue-eared Glossy Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus was a resi-
dent restricted to Riverine. I saw it feeding on insects on the
ground (67 per cent of 21 items) and fruits of Salvadora persica. The
Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea was a wet season visitor. It was
one of the few species which showed an equally well-marked peak of
abundance in April as in December with a drop in numbers in between.
When it was present it was a fairly common bird, and often in large
flocks (100+). It was usually seen in habitats with trees although it
was less common in Woodland than the others. Like other starlings it
was seen eating insects on the ground (61 per cent of 167 items re-
corded) and fruit (39 per cent).
The final sturnid, the Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 83
was very different from all the other birds in the Park. It was fair-
ly common as a resident in all the habitats inside the Park but was
less common in the Woodland I worked in outside. It fed almost ex-
clusively on ectoparasites on the hides of large mammals and seemed
especially to favour rhino, buffalo and giraffe although I saw it also
on many antelopes and warthog. The reason for it being less common in
Woodland was probably that the animals that occur there, domestic
cattle, sheep and goats, are now regularly dipped and have many fewer
parasites. In Tsavo East the Red-billed is the only oxpecker; in many
other areas the Yellow-billed B. africanus also occurs, and where the
two coexist they appear to divide the resources between them with the
Yellow-billed feeding mainly on buffalo and the Red-billed on other
species (Buskirk 1975).
The group of three referred to above comprises two Spreo species,
the Superb S.superbus and Fischer's S. fischeri, and the Golden-
breasted Cosmopsarus regius. The Superb and the Golden-breasted were
usually seen in groups of six to ten but Fischer's was more common in
flocks of up to forty. The two Spreo species were both commonest in
the Park savanna habitats with trees, but the Superb was commoner than
Fischer's in those without, and Fischer's was commoner in Woodland.
Despite this the Superb was much commoner than Fischer's in the north-
ern area. In Woodland and Riverine the Golden-breasted was much com-
moner than either of the others.
All three were resident in good numbers, but all showed seasonal
peaks between June and August. All are conspicuous birds so the peaks
are unlikely to be artificial. It is surprising though that numbers
were lowest in the wet season during peak insect abundance. It is
possible that the birds lived in smaller groups then and were more
spread out.
All three species fed mainly on the ground, usually in bare patches
and were predominantly insectivorous: for the Golden-breasted 76 per
cent of 394 items were insect (97 per cent of these from the ground),
for the Superb 87 per cent of 597 items were insect (all from the
ground) and for Fischer's 99 per cent of 292 items (all from the
ground). They all ate large numbers of termites. I also recorded
all species eating fruits - Fischer's only once, Superb 10 per cent of
items (eight birds) the remaining 3 per cent of items were Acacia
flowers, and the Golden-breasted 24 per cent of items (18 birds). This
last is related to habitat preferences as six of the 18 birds were
eating Commiphora (i.e. in Woodland) and another four were on Dobera
(i.e. in Riverine).
Sunbirds Nectariniidae
All five regular species were resident. The Collard Sunbird Anthrep-
tes collaris occurred rarely in Riverine and in gardens around Park
Headquarters. The Eastern Violet-backed A. orientalis occurred mainly
in Woodland but also in other thick habitats. It was not seen in the
Voi River Forest, where Collared occurred, but was seen several times
in the fringe of Acacia trees (mainly A.elatior) along the Tiva River
84 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
TABLE 16
Feeding behaviour of five sunbirds in Tsavo
I OS ESSA I SID, TES
Species (key below): Ao Ac Nb Na Nh
Bill (key below) ss ss sc IAS ibe
Number of items 94 38 178 81 A020"
Nectar: Per cent of total 54 18 82 63 77
Per cent from Delonix elata @) 0) 10 41 35
Per cent from other trees Sil 100 52. 20 ay:
Per cent from bushes 49 6) 38 39 28
Insect: Per cent of total 46 87 18 34 21
Per cent off leaves 88 67 yf! 67 43
Per cent off twigs 0) 1S, 0) Bi) 36
Per cent taken in air 1 sys 69 6) PAs
Percent taken by bird ane plot 14 Be 69 33 34
Key to abbreviations of species names: Ao = Anthreptes orientalis;
Ac = A. collaris; Nb = Nectarinia bifasciata; Na = N. amethystina;
Nh = N. hunteri.
Key to bill type: ss = short straight; sc = short curved; lc = long
curved. ;
Note: a) includes ten feeds on Commiphora fruit.
where I did not record the Collared. The Amethyst Nectarinia ameth-
ystina was very Similar in preferences to the Collared, being in Riv-
erine and gardens. The Little Purple-banded WN. bifasciata was nearly
confined to Woodland but, in the northern area, it occurred in other
thick habitats. The final species, Hunter's WN. hunteri, was much the
commonest and most widespread species, occurring in all habitats ex-
cept Grassland though it was commonest in Woodland.
All five species were seen eating both insects and nectar. Data are
given in Table 16 but the absolute figures for the proportions of in-
sect and nectar feeding must be treated with caution. Nectar feeding
is likely to be much more conspicuous than insect feeding, though the
relative amounts between species in the proportion of nectar to insect
should not be affected. Except that they ate nectar, the two Anthrep-
tes species and the Amethyst, are shown to be very like the warblers,
although they all took more food in flight than the warblers. For the
two long-billed Nectarinia species, the Amethyst and Hunter's, the
large flowers of Delonix elata appeared to be very important, and the
short-billed Little Purple-banded fed mainly on smaller flowers.
In former times the ecological situation was evidently much more
complicated. In addition to the above five species, the Olive Sunbird
N. olivacea, Variable N.venusta, Mariqua N. mariquensis, Beautiful
N. pulchella and Smaller Black-bellied N. nectarinioides were all
present in varying numbers and most of them were in Woodland and/or
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 85
the Voi River Forest. I saw a few Smaller Black-bellied each year,
there is one recent record of Variable, and there have been no records
of the others for several years.
Other species: one probable record of the Bronze WN. kilimensis.
White-eyes Zosteropidae
The one species, the Abyssinian White-eye Zosterops abyssinica, oc-
curred rarely in any area with large trees. It was usually seen in
small groups but otherwise behaved like a warbler.
Weavers, sparrows Ploceidae
Both members of the Bubalornithinae were common and widespread. Both
occurred commonly throughout the year but showed some seasonal patt-
erns of occurrence. Their habitat preferences overlapped extensively.
The Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger was commonest in the
wet seasons and occurred more in flocks then. It was common in all
habitats except Grassland. The White-headed Buffalo Weaver Dinemellia
dinemelli was commonest from June to August and occurred in all habi-
tats although it was rare in Grassland and Riverine. Both species fed
primarily on the ground and were seen to take both seeds and insects
but the proportion of each was unknown. Both species ate some fruit
but the White-headed was not seen to eat any Commiphora so the season-
al pattern of abundance of this fruit seems not to affect this bird's
humbers. Indeed, there is no very obvious cause for its seasonal oc-
currence.
Two sparrows Passerinae were very common residents. The Parrot-
billed Sparrow Passer griseus gongonensis was commonest in Riverine.
It also occurred in all other habitats but was very rare in Grassland
and Woodland. The Yellow-spotted Petronia Petronia pyrgita was reg-
ular in all habitats. The Parrot-billed Sparrow fed on the ground and
probably ate both seeds and insects. The petronia had a very varied
diet: of 158 items recorded, 27 per cent were fruits in both trees and
bushes, 27 per cent were certainly insects (three-quarters in woody
vegetation with mean height 4.7m, standard error 1.1, n = 15 birds),
2 per cent in the air, 12 per cent from the ground, and 32 per cent
were items from the ground where it could not be determined whether
the bird was eating seeds or insects.
The only regular species in the Plocepasserinae was the White-browed
Sparrow Weaver Plocepasser mahali. It was a fairly common resident in
Yiverine fringes and gardens, although not in Riverine forest. All
seen feeding were on the ground.
Of the 15 weavers Ploceinae only ten were regular. The Black-necked
Weaver Ploceus nigricollis was a fairly common resident in Woodland
and was seen in other habitats only in the northern area. The Red-
headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps was an uncommon resident in Wood-
land and Riverine and was seen regularly around Park Headquarters
where it often nested on, or even in, buildings. These two species
had very different ecology from the other weavers. They occurred
singly and not in flocks and were primarily insectivorous and not
86 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
granivorous. Both species took insects mostly from leaves (Black-
necked all 16 insects, Red-headed 90 per cent of 32 insects). My data
suggest that the Black-necked fed mainly fairly low down (mean height
1.4m, standard error 0.6, n = 4) and the Red-headed in trees (mean
height 7.9m, standard error 1.3, n= 9). The difference is signifi-
cant (d = 4.5 with df 11, P <0.001). I also saw both species eating
fruits (Black-headed: 4 birds on Commiphora, 1 on Salvadora persica
and 1 on Acacia pods; Red-headed: 2 birds on Acacia pods and 1 on
Premna). (All the above figures for the Red-headed Weaver exclude two
birds seen catching flying termites from a bush.)
All the remaining eight species were seasonal visitors occurring
from December to February. The commoner ones reappeared in smaller
numbers in April and May. The Golden Weaver Ploceus subaureus was not
seen in censuses but was seen around its nest sites, particularly in
reeds along the Galana River, and there was sometimes a colony in Voi.
The Masked Weaver P. intermedius was fairly common in Woodland and
less so in other thick habitats. The Black-headed Weaver P. cucul-
latus was almost restricted to the Voi area. A few individuals stayed ©
at colonies all the year, e.g. at Voi Safari Lodge, but there were
many more present in the wet seasons. The Chestnut Weaver P. rubig-
inosus occurred in Woodland and rarely in other habitats. The Red-
billed Quelea Quelea quelea, when present, was the most abundant bird
in the area and often occurred in flocks of several hundreds, some-
times thousands. It was commonest in open habitats but occurred reg-
ularly in all. As with a few other such visitors a few individuals
could be seen at all times, but the large flocks were found only in
January and February. It has bred in the area then but does not do so
regularly. The White-winged Widowbird Euplectes albonotatus was only
recorded in December and January in damper areas especially near the
Voi River. The Fire-fronted Bishop E. diadematus was common from De-
cember to February but much less so after that. It occurred in all
habitats though it was rare in Grassland. Finally, the Zanzibar Red
Bishop E. nigroventris was a rare visitor to riverside habitats.
All these species are thought to be primarily granivores although
most, if not all, will take some insects when breeding. Many of them
take the seeds direct from the stem, see discussion below.
Where the species spend the remainder of the year is largely un-
known, except for the Red-billed Quelea. This migrates between Som-
alia and southern Tanzania following the rain belt, with a dry season
refuge in northern Tanzania (Ward 1971). I suspect that many other
weaver species (and others) will be found to be similar. The Fire-
fronted Bishop, however, may be different as it has only very rarely
been recorded south of Tsavo (Hall & Moreau 1970). However, this and
several other species are very difficult to distinguish when they are
not in breeding plumage, and hence a species could easily be overlook-
ed unless it is very common.
Of the five Viduinae only two were regular. The Pin-tailed Whydah
Vidua macroura occurred rarely, mainly soon after the wet seasons and
was almost restricted to Riverine. Males were often displaying but
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 87
their main host, the Waxbill Estrilda astrild, was very rare. The
Paradise Whydah V. paradisaea was much commoner and occurred in flocks
after rain, especially in January and February, in Riverine and a few
were seen in other areas with large trees. All individuals seen feed-
ing were on the ground and it is thought that the species is entirely
granivorous.
Other species recorded: Grey-headed Social Weaver Pseudonigrita arn-
audi, Black-capped Social Weaver P.cabanisi, Grosbeak Weaver Amblyo-
spiza albifrons, Parasitic Weaver Anomalospiza imberbis, Black-winged
Red Bishop Euplectes hordeaceus, Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis,
Vitelline Masked Weaver P.velatus, Straw-tailed Whydah Vidua fisch-
eri, Steel-blue Whydah V. hypocherina and unidentified indigobirds
Hypochera spp.
Waxbills Estrildidae
Only five species were regular and none was common. The Green-winged
Pytilia Pytilia melba was a resident in all areas with thick bushes.
The Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu Uraeginthus bengalus was a resident re-
stricted to Riverine and gardens, but was there quite common. The
Crimson-rumped Waxbill Estrilda rhodopyga occurred between December
and March usually near rivers and other damp places. The Grey-headed
Silverbill Lonchura griseicapilla was an irregular uncommon visitor to
any area. Finally, the Cut-throat Amadina fasciata was a visitor, at
times fairly common especially during January to March to open areas.
I have few feeding data for any of these species and the following
comments are mainly subjective impressions. The Green-winged Pytilia
stayed mainly under or very close to bushes whereas the Red-cheeked
Cordon-bleu was seen further from them, as was the Cut-throat which
additionally often occurred in flocks rather than as singles or pairs.
These three seemed to feed almost entirely on the ground and mainly on
seeds. The pytilia certainly also ate termites (e.g. the stomach ana-
lysed by Lack & Quicke 1978). Termites of course occur in the same
places as seeds (see discussion below). The other two, Crimson-rumped
Waxbill and Grey-headed Silverbill, seemed to take seeds mainly direct
from the grass stems not the ground. The birds occurred mainly at
times when these seeds were most abundant.
Three other species occurred regularly but were very uncommon. The
Purple Grenadier Uraeginthus ianthinogaster was regular in Woodland
and in thicker habitats in the northern area. The Silver-bill Lonch-
ura malabarica was seen near water, and the Bronze Mannikin L. cucul-
lata occurred around houses.
Other species record¢d: Waxbill Estrilda astrild, Black-cheeked Wax-
bill E.erythronotatus, Peters' Twinspot Hypargos niveoguttatus, one
or more firefinch species Lagonosticta sp(p)., Quailfinch Ortygospiza
atricollis, Orange-winged Pytilia Pytilia afra, Blue-capped Cordon-
bleu Uraeginthus cyanocephalus.
88 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
Buntings, finches Fringillidae
The Somali Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza poliopleura was a common
resident in Bushland and Wooded Bushland with a few in other habitats
with thick bushes, but it was not in Riverine. It fed on the ground
walking around like a lark. Food items not recorded but it is thought
to eat both insects and seeds.
Other species recorded: Cinnamon-breasted Rock Bunting Emberiza taha-
pisi, Yellow-rumped Seed-eater Serinus atrogularis, Grosbeak Canary
S.donaldsoni, White-bellied Canary S.dorsostriatus, Yellow-fronted
Canary S.mozambicus.
Other land-bird species
Aerial species: swifts Apodidae and swallows Hirundinidae
The methods of study I used were unsuited to these species although a
few data on their occurrence were obtained using a series of counts
along the roads of the Park. A fixed 189km was covered each month
and all species seen were counted. Other data were obtained on a
casual basis only.
800
600
200
ITO NS OUND DB OM AP Men eh cea
1975 1976 a,
Fig. 6. The seasonal occurrence of aerial species in Tsavo East (data
from counts along 189km of Park roads): solid line Eurasian Swallow
Hirundo rustica, pecked line all other species of swift Apodidae and
swallow Hirundinidae combined.
Three resident species of swift were common and all were seen pre-
dominantly around their nests: the Little Swift Apus affinis on build-
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 89
ings, the White-rumped A. caffer especially in culverts but also on
buildings and the Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus around doum palms Hy-
Pphaene coriacea. The last therefore mainly occurred near water-
courses.
Only one swallow, the Eurasian Hirundo rustica, was common; it oc-
curred from September to early May but was common only from the onset
of the rains in November till mid February (see Fig. 6). It occurred
over all habitats, usually feeding fairly low over the ground, and it
quite often followed large mammals, catching the disturbed insects.
Small numbers of four resident species were also seen, usually near
their nest sites: the Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii near water,
Red-rumped H. daurica mainly in culverts, Striped H. abyssinica mainly
on buildings, and the African Rock Martin H. fuligula around rocky
mi 1is..
Other species recorded: swifts - Mottled Apus aequatorialis, Eurasian
A.apus, Black A. barbatus, Horus A. horus, Alpine A. melba, Nyanza
A. nianzae, Bohm's Spinetail Neafrapus boehmi, Mottle-throated Spine-
tail Telacanthura ussheri; swallows - House Martin Delichon urbica,
Mosque Swallow Hirundo senegalensis, Banded Martin Riparia cincta,
Sand Martin R. riparia.
Nocturnal species: nightjars Caprimulgidae and owls Tytonidae. and
Strigidae
There were three regular resident owls of which the Pearl-spotted Owl-
et Glaucidium perlatum was probably the commonest. It was common
along rivers and more rarely anywhere else where there were trees. The
Spotted Eagle Owl Bubo africanus occurred throughout the Park and was
usually found roosting on or near the ground. Verreaux's Eagle Owl B.
lacteus was only seen in large trees, especially along rivers.
There are eight species of nightjar recorded. Nearly all positive
identifications were road casualties, and it is probable that most, if
not all, were migratory, occurring in Tsavo during and soon after the
wet seasons. Stomach contents of eleven individuals of five species
were analysed by Lack & Quicke (1978) and the diets were shown to be
very generalized. The eight species recorded are Slender-tailed Cap-
rimulgus clarus, Donaldson-Smith's C.donaldsoni, Eurasian C. europ-
aeus, Gabon C.fossii, Dusky C. fraenatus, Plain C. inornatus, Nubian
C.nubicus and Freckled C. tristigma. Of these Donaldson-Smith's and
Gabon were probably the commonest.
Other owls recorded: White-faced Scops Owl Otus leucotis, Scops Owl
O. scops, and Barn Owl Tyto alba.
Birds of Prey Accipitridae, Pandionidae and Falconidae
My methods of study were again unsuited to the study of such large and
wide-ranging species, and they have already been the subject of a de-
tailed study by Smeenk (1974, especially pp. 7-24 and Appendices 2 and
3). The majority of the larger species feed on vertebrates and hence
90 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
were not competing with any of the other land-birds considered in this
study. Some of the smaller species certainly ate insects as well.
However, the only two which were seen as regularly as any of the other
land-birds were the Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus and the Kes-
trel Falco tinnunculus. The Pygmy Falcon was a resident and occurred
in all habitats. It behaved like a roller Coracias sitting on prom-
inent perches and pouncing to the ground, although it also chased
small birds. The Kestrel occurred from November to March and was most
often seen hovering over very open grassy areas. It was therefore un-
like any other bird in the area in its feeding habits.
A total of 52 species of bird of prey have been recorded (list in
Lack, Leuthold & Smeenk 1980).
Others
A few storks Ciconiidae were occasionally seen feeding in the grass,
especially the White Stork Ciconia ciconia and Abdim's C. abdimii, but
neither these nor any others can have more than a very minor effect on
the ecology of the land-birds of Tsavo.
DISCUSSION
As stated earlier, there are three major food types utilized by
birds in Tsavo: fruits, seeds and insects, and a few species eat nec-
tar and others that eat small vertebrates. The species eating these
foods have some characteristics in common and these are discussed
briefly here.
All the species eating fruits were common in Woodland and/or River-
ine and the majority were rather rarely seen in the more open habit-
ats. This is not too surprising when one considers the distribution
of the fruits. The only fruit eaten regularly which occurred in the
Park savanna habitats was Premna spp., and this only fruited for a
short period after each wet season. All frugivores ate substantial
amounts of the most abundant fruits, especially Commiphora and Salvad-
ora persica. Those birds which ate insects as well, largely restrict-
ed their fruit diet to these but those birds which were purely fru-
givorous also ate a wide variety of other species of fruit. For many
of the former birds, the insects they ate were also largely the most
abundant ones, termites, and this applied even to the largest birds,
the four hornbills Tockus spp.
Premna spp. were relatively unimportant to frugivores in general,
but were eaten regularly in April by one group of insectivores, some of
the Palaearctic chats and warblers, especially Irania, Whitethroat and
Barred Warbler. This is a period when these birds are presumably fat-
tening in preparation for their flight to their breeding areas. The
birds were commoner, and the Premna fruit was freely available, in
December but none of the birds was seen to take it at that time. Pre-
sumably the birds did not need so much fat in December as, although
many were probably just passage migrants, they were not intending to
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 91
travel so far. This contradicts Berthold's (1976) experimental work
which showed that similar bird species preferred animal food at mig-
ration times and the intake of vegetable matter was actually decreas-
ed then.
The granivores showed completely different habitat preferences to
frugivores. Most were commonest in the Park savanna habitats, which
reflects the availability of their food. The resident granivores took
most of their seeds from the ground after it had fallen, and hence
they preferred areas with a low grass cover. Many, but not all, of
the visitors preferred areas with a higher grass cover and took their
seeds direct from the stem of the grass.
There is quite a large number of birds which appeared to take both
seeds and insects from the ground. Details of their ecological diff-
erences, if any, were very difficult to determine largely because it
was very difficult to see what they were actually eating. On several
occasions I searched the ground where birds had been feeding indust-
riously: there were often seeds and termites, and sometimes other in-
sects and even fallen fruit, but also very often there did not appear
to be anything edible at all. Much of the food may be very small.
A majority of the birds in Tsavo ate insects although they may eat
other things as well. There are three major sources of these - the
air, the ground and herbage, and the woody vegetation; and the Red-
billed Oxpecker uses a fourth - the hides of large mammals. Each of
the three major sources is utilized in two main ways, and relatively
few species use more than one source or method of feeding. The aerial
insects are captured either from continuous flight, a method used by
swifts and swallows but few others, or by sallying to individual items
from a perch. Swifts and swallows evidently use the source slightly
differently from each other as, among the resident species there is
- one of each family by water, one of each near buildings and one of
each near culverts, although in some places the last four and the Af-
Yican Rock Martin all occur together.
Those species sallying from a perch are nearly all fairly small, and
it is surprising that only one, the Pied Wheatear, uses both this
method of feeding and pouncing to the ground on a regular basis, as
the methods appear to be very similar. However, there may be a con-
flict between the manoeuvrability needed to catch fast-moving prey in
the air, and the size and strength which seems to be characteristic of
the pouncing species (see below). Those species sallying from a perch
to the air almost always stay close to the vegetation, and are largely
in the thicker habitats and not out in the open.
The two groups of species taking insects from the ground are those
which pounce from an elevated perch to single items (pouncers), and
those which stay on the ground and run between items (gleaners). A
few species, notably the Rock Thrush and Northern Wheatear, combined
the methods. Their usual feeding method was to pounce to the ground
and then eat several items, often running between each, before return-
ing to a perch.
92 Tsavo East land-bird ecology
Most of the pouncers are quite large and many have strong hooked
beaks. They and the aerial species must expend considerably more en-
ergy per food item than species using other methods so there may be a
lower limit to the size of prey worth taking. As noted above, the
aerial species are on the whole small and probably sacrifice some of
their size and strength for manoeuvrability, and sacrifice a strong
beak for a wide gape. Pouncers are larger and probably take larger
prey, though I have no direct quantitative data on this except for
noting often that it was 'quite large'. However, three measures might
be related to it: height of perch, distance flown to items and feeding
rate. If the bird perches higher it can search further; it is only
worth flying out further to larger items; and if feeding is less often
it should be only for larger items. I have sufficient data on these
measures for ten species of pouncer - two rollers, two kingfishers,
five shrikes and a flycatcher and Table 17 gives the correlation co-
TABLE 14
Correlation coefficients between size of bird (weight) and three
feeding characteristics of specialist pouncing species
All 10 species Without 2 kingfishers
(df 8) (df 6)
Feeding characteristic E Significance 4 Significance
Height of perch O83 N.S. 0.60 N.S.
Distance flown to food 0.68) ) 40205 0.69 P’) 02.40
Feeding rate =045d 9 Po O40 -0.76 Pre 0.05
Note: the probability level for 'distance flown to food' is approxim-
ately equal to 0.05 in both cases.
efficients between the three traits and the size (weight) of the ten
species. The two kingfishers have a very different beak shape from
the other eight species, and the table also shows the correlation co-
efficients when these two species are excluded. There is a signifi-
cant relation with two of the three variables, and there is an in-
crease in the probability value for two of them when the two kingfish-
ers are excluded. (With distance flown the probability is approxim-
ately equal to 0.05 in both cases.) This suggests that beak shape is
likely to be as important as body size in determining what prey can be
tackled. The two kingfishers perched higher, flew out a little fur-
ther and fed less often than one would have expected from their weight
in relation to the other species, and hence may be taking larger prey.
There were a large number of species which gleaned on the ground and
most of these appeared to be eating the same food as each other, es-
pecially termites. The great majority of the birds were open country
species feeding from bare ground and/or areas with a low grass cover,
although there were a few which were confined to thick grass, e.g.
Ashy Cisticola, or litter in the thicker habitats, e.g. Bare-eyed
Thrush.
Tsavo East land-bird ecology 93
There are also a large number of species in the group which take
food from leaves in the woody vegetation. (The other group is the
twig specialists, see below.) Like the ground gleaners, the leaf
gleaners all seemed to take the same food, although they do largely
divide into tree feeders and bush feeders. Perhaps not surprisingly
in view of the seasonality of leaves, they are less common and wide-
spread than the ground feeders, and a high proportion of them were
confined to Woodland and/or Riverine, which are probably the least
seasonal of the major habitat types. These habitats also have thicker
bushes and more evergreens than the open Park savanna habitats, both
of which will hold more insects and hence more birds, especially in
the dry season.
The final group is the twig specialists, although some of the pre-
‘vious group also take some food from twigs of necessity. The group
contains seven common species, two woodpeckers, two wood hoopoes, two
helmet shrikes and the Northern Crombec and they all seemed to feed
slightly differently from each other.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am very grateful to the Director and Trustees of the former Kenya
National Parks and to the Department of Wildlife Conservation and Man-
agement of the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife for permission to live
and work in Tsavo East National Park. Many people, especially A.D.
Forbes-Watson, Dr W. Leuthold and the late D.L.W. Sheldrick, helped me
in Kenya, and Drs R.J. O'Connor and G.K. Taylor kindly criticized
earlier drafts of the manuscript.
The study was possible only with the generous financial support of
the Royal Society, Leverhulme Trustees, Frank M. Chapman Fund and the
National Audubon Society.
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(Received 9 May 1983)
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 97
THE SPOTTED GROUND THRUSH TURDUS FISCHERI FISCHERI
AT GEDE IN COASTAL KENYA
L.A. Bennun
Turdus fischeri, the Spotted Ground Thrush, is a rare, elusive and
little-known African bird with a very fragmented distribution. Four
races are described, all existing in isolated patches of moist ever-
green forest. T.f.natalicus, the largest, breeds in coastal forests
in eastern Cape Province, South Africa, migrating in March to Natal
and southern Kwazulu (Clancey 1955, 1957). The Malawi race belcheri
appears to be resident, but scarce, up to at least 1500m in the Soche
and Thyolo forests near Blantyre (Benson 1950, 1952, 1954). A race,
maxis, waS described in 1982 on the basis of a specimen collected at
1250m in the Imatong Mts, southern Sudan (Nikolaus 1982). The nom-
inate race is known only as a non-breeding visitor between March and
November to forests on the Kenya coast (Britton & Rathbun 1978).
Completing this pattern of wide geographical separation, an unassign-
ed bird has been collected at 1700m in the Upemba National Park of
southern Zaire (Benson & Benson 1975).
Only natalicus is thought to be reasonably common. T.f. belcheri
persists as a very small population, while the type specimen remains
the only record of maxis despite three years of fieldwork in the Im-
atongs by its discoverer (Nikolaus 1982). Mackworth-Praed & Grant
(1960) considered the nominate race "probably now extinct"; there had
been only two sight records since Fischer's original specimens were
taken in 1885 (Benson 1950, 1954). However, a specimen was shot in
Sokoke Forest in 1964 (Keith & Twomey 1968) and regular sightings sub-
sequently established the bird as seasonally common in three tiny
patches of coral rag forest at Gede, Shimoni, and Jadini. There ap-
pears also to be a seasonal presence at a much lower density in Sok-
oke Forest, and a few records have been obtained elsewhere on the
coast (Britton 1980, Britton & Rathbun 1978, Britton, Britton & Cov-
erdale 1980). The birds' breeding grounds are unknown. This study
was undertaken to assess the status and general ecology of the nom-
inate race at Gede; it was carried out during July and August 1983 as
part of the University of East Anglia - International Council for Bird
Preservation Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Expedition.
METHODS
Gede Ruins National Monument (3.18'S, 40.01'E) protects the ruins of
a fifteenth century Afro-Arab town. The 44-ha site, on coral rag, has
been cleared around the main excavations but is otherwise covered with
dense semi-deciduous lowland forest (Moomaw 1960).
Mist nets were used at eight sites distributed across the forested
area (Fig. 1), from 10 to 17 and 22 to 25 July. Choice of site was
constrained by the availability of suitable small paths or trails;
Scopus 9: 97-107, September 1985
98 Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede
these usually required some clearing, and the net lengths used varied.
Several sites were operated simultaneously, the nets being open at
each for two morning and two afternoon sessions (i.e. one evening, the
whole of the next day, and the morning following that). Nests were
opened at 06:00 and closed at 18:30.
Weights and wing-lengths were taken for all species caught; in add-
ition, all Tf. fischeri were individually colour-ringed, with colour
combinations chosen to minimize possible confusion in dim light. Re-
location and observation of colour-ringed birds continued at intervals
until 19 August, and retrapping was organized at sites A and C (Fig.1)
on 8 and 9 August. Some habitat assessment (described below) was un-
N
0 100m
Fig. 1. Map of Gede Ruins National Monument. Key: ---- path, Oruined
building, ruined wall, »——*-forest edge, A - H are net sites,
e@ Ground Thrush first caught, o retrap, x relocation, — position of
net, ? sighting of unringed bird.
dertaken towards the end of the study period. This report also in-
cludes data for Tf. fischeri captured during the expedition's work in
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 99
the adjacent Sokoke Forest (Kelsey & Langton 1984).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Ten Turdus fischeri were captured at Gede, and three in Sokoke For-
est. Mean wing-length was 118.3mm (range 114 - 121mm) and mean
weight 58.2g (range 53 - 62g). Six recaptures were made at Gede,
and three colour-ringed individuals were relocated (Fig. 1). Three of
the marked individuals at Gede were neither relocated nor retrapped.
General habits
The species was at all times very difficult to observe, being silent,
shy, and extremely well camouflaged. The birds were markedly terres-
trial; when disturbed on the ground they generally stood quite still,
remaining motionless for up to six minutes before beginning to forage
once more in a typical thrush fashion, making one or two rapid hops
then plunging the beak repeatedly into the leaf litter.
Vocalizations
The South African race natalicus has a rich musical song uttered from
high in a tree (Chiazzari 1952). The only vocalization identified at
Gede was a very quiet, thin tswee call made while the bird foraged.
Song has been heard at Diani (Jadini) south of Mombasa (Irvine & Ir-
vine 1977b) and birds there have sung in response to recordings of the
song of the race natalicus; the nominate race's song at Diani proved,
however, to be quite distinct (R. McVicker pers. comm.) and is heard
throughout the birds' stay in Kenya.
Activity
Capture and relocation timings suggest that the species is most active
early and late in the day. None was caught between 09:20 and 17:00,
although one bird (B/Y) was observed foraging actively at 11:20, sug-
gesting that a steady low level of activity may be maintained through-
out the middle hours. Taking all records together, there is no sug-
gestion of greater activity in the morning than the afternoon hours,
or vice versa (29 morning, 20 afternoon sessions; 15 morning, 8 after-
noon records: x*-test; P >0.1).
Home range
All recaptures and relocations were very close to the original capture
points. The greatest displacement was 40m in the case of the immat-
ure bird, R/W; all others (13) were below 30m, and most were much
smaller than this. Site fidelity was not just a short-term phenomen-
on; for example, R/DG and DG/W were retrapped a few metres from their
original capture points over a month after they were colour-ringed.
It thus seems appropriate to regard individual T.f. fischeri as moving
and foraging within a well-defined home range. By contrast, retrap
data for the Red-capped Robin Chat Cossypha natalensis (another mig-
ratory thrush occurring at Gede: Britton & Rathbun 1978) show that
movements between net sites, involving distances of more than 100n,
were not uncommon.
100 Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede
No territorial interactions were observed in T.f. fischeri; indeed,
no two birds were ever seen in close proximity. Some, though, may
have had partially overlapping home ranges; for instance, DG/W and
R/DG were initially caught in the same net at site A, and DG/W was re-
trapped within the known home range of R/DG. At net site C, birds B/Y
and W/LG had capture points very close together.
Two birds, R/DG and B/Y, were located often enough to allow the cal-
culation of home range areas (Fig. 2). The method employed was that of
Jennrich & Turner (1969) which relies on
NJ | the covariance matrix of the location
points: the points were mapped on to an
arbitary Cartesian grid, and the area cal-
culated from their co-ordinates using the
appropriate formulae. Of relatively sim-
ple methods this gives the most accurate
and stable estimate with a small sample,
and is the least sensitive to temporal
contingency in the points used (Ford &
Myers 1981). Calculated areas were
1360 m for R/DG and 1347m* for B/Y. The
Similarity of these values may be fort-
uitous; certainly they must be regarded as
minimum estimates for the utilized areas,
Since it is likely that birds were more
difficult to detect the further away they
were from the net site paths.
Relative abundance
The ringing results suggest that T.f.
fischeri was the second most abundant for-
est floor bird at Gede in July and August,
after Cossypha natalensis (Table 1).
Britton & Rathbun (1978) gave second place
to the Eastern Bearded Scrub Robin Cerco-
trichas quadrivirgata; this is a much more
conspicuous bird than the ground thrush
and observers have probably overestimated
its relative numbers in the past. Pooled
results from Sokoke Forest show that there
C. quadrivirgata is, overall, the more ab-
undant of the two (Table 1); however, the
Sokoke survey covered a number of differ-
ent habitat types, so it is not possible
to make a straightforward comparison.
Fig. 2) LOCat1On spOIneES
for bird R/DG at net site
A, used to calculate home
range area. Sightings with
the same number are temp-
orally linked, represent-
ing the first and last
points where a bird was
observed on a single oc-
casion. o seen, ecaught.
Age structure :
Only one immature Spotted Ground Thrush was caught at Gede; the immat-
ure:adult ratio was much lower than in either of the other terrestrial
thrushes (Table 2: data from Gede and Sokoke combined). This scarcity
of immature birds was unexpected. Kenyan ringing records for the
species from 1972 to 1981 indicate that, of 19 birds handled, 10 were
—
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 10
TABLE 1
Total numbers caught of three ground-dwelling thrushes
Sokoke Forest Gede Ruins
ewe... = :_:'P-axXw]____==__a=aa_aaaaaanananaD nn
Cossypha natalensis 49 Sy
Turdus f. fischeri 3 10
| Cercotrichas quadrivirgata 17 , 5
adults, 3 "fully grown" and 6 immature. Conservatively counting the
"fully grown" birds as adults gives an immature:adult ratio for this
period of 1:2.2, comparable to the ratio found here for Cossypha nat-
alensis. Given this proportion, the chance that no more than one bird
out of thirteen caught would be an immature is significantly small,
although only barely so (binomial test; P = 0.05). There are several
possible reasons for this apparent difference in age structure. Most
obviously, it could be caused by unusually poor breeding success in
the season prior to the study. However, unlike this study, the ring-
ing data for past years include presumed passage periods, as they
cover all months from April to October; they also include records from
Bamburi, Jadini, Mrima and Shimoni as well as Gede and Sokoke. Adult
birds might well exclude immatures from areas of optimum habitat, such
as Gede appears to be, so that a larger proportion of immature birds
would be captured during passage periods and in sub-optimal forest
tracts. With only 19 past records there is unfortunately little scope
for subdivision to test this idea. Despite the tiny samples though,
it is of interest to examine the coral rag forests (Gede, Jadini and
Shimoni) together. Here the immature:adult ratio is 1:2 for the pre-
TABLE 2
Immature:adult ratios for three ground-dwelling thrushes
[ringing results pooled for Sokoke Forest and Gede Ruins]
Total no. Total no. Immature:adult
immatures adults ratio
Cossypha natalensis 29 57, 122% 0
Turdus f. fischeri 1 12 let 250
Cercotrichas quadrivirgata 8 14 Lae 8
sumed resident period (taken as the second half of May to the first
half of September, inclusive; six birds) and 1:1 for dates outside
nis (four birds).
Population size
Because the Spotted Ground Thrush is so hard to see, and the number of
birds caught was small, conventional methods of population size estim-
ation are inapplicable. To overcome this difficulty a simple techni-
102 Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede
que was devised that uses the calculated home ranges to obtain an est-
imate of the total area sampled during netting (see Appendix). Using
this, the estimated population density is 2.9 birds/ha, giving a total
of 113 T.f. fischeri in the 39ha forest area. These are upper limits;
if the true home ranges were indeed larger than calculated, then the
density estimates would be reduced accordingly.
The overall population density in Sokoke Forest is presumably much
lower than that at Gede Ruins; a direct comparison is impossible, but
while much more mist-netting took place in Sokoke than at Gede (Kelsey
& Langton 1984), only three Spotted Ground Thrushes were caught there.
Because of the forest's still considerable area, some 37 200 ha, even a
low overall density of fT. fischeri could imply a sizeable population.
However, only some 28 per cent of the forest is still undisturbed, and
this proportion is diminishing constantly (Kelsey & Langton 1984).
Diet
Attempts during this study to determine diet (by use of tincture of
ipecacuanha to induce regurgitation) proved unsuccessful). From stom-
ach contents, Chiazzari (1952) described the diet of the race natal-
icus as "grubs and insects". Three specimens of the nominate race in
the National Museum, Nairobi, had fragments of small millipedes Prion-
opetalum spp. in their stomachs, while the stomach of a bird from Sok-
oke Forest collected in July contained seeds and fruit pulp (Britton &
Zimmerman 1979).
Ants have been suggested as part of 7.f. fischeri's diet (Mackworth-
Praed & Grant 1960, Burrell & Abel 1976). Large swarms of ants Dory-
lus sp. are often encountered at Gede Ruins, and attract considerable
numbers of forest birds: for example Cossypha natalensis, Cercotrichas
quadrivirgata, and Nicators Nicator chloris. Turdus fischeri was
never observed in these feeding parties. In one instance, a Swarm was
watched for 3% hours in the home range of R/DG; R/DG itself appeared
after 2% hours, perched near the edge of the swarm for some ten sec-
onds, then flew away from the bird party and was lost to view.
On the available evidence, T.f. fischeri thus appears to be a gen-
eralist ground feeder, but a solitary one that may actually avoid
parties of feeding birds.
Habitat preferences
A survey was carried out to assess several habitat variables (mainly
related to the amount of shade cast by the upper canopy). Ten sites
were selected, five in the assumed home ranges of individual ground
thrushes and five at net sites where none of this species had been
caught or observed. At each four 4-m* quadrats were sampled, one each
10m north, south east, and west of an arbitary point along the track.
The following were assessed: relative proportions of bare soil, leaf
litter and low herbaceous growth; the numbers of woody plants in each
of four size groups; the degree of undergrowth tangle on a O-5 scale;
leaf litter thickness (the average of the number of fallen leaves at
four specified points within the quadrat).
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 103
The results (Table 3) show that the Spotted Ground Thrush appears to
prefer habitat characters associated with deep shade: nearly complete
canopy cover, extensive, thick leaf litter, and a relatively sparse
growth of small saplings. The impression was that the birds" home
ranges included one or more densely shaded glades, rather open at
ground level, with nearby areas of low, thick, undergrowth, tangled
with dead wood and vines, where they retreated when threatened.
TABLE 3
Quadrat results averaged for T.f. fischeri home ranges ("+SGT")
and net sites where no T.f. fischeri were caught ("-SGT")
means: means: Significance
Variable FiSGr - SGT of difference’
Depth of litter (1-5) 323 is Pr< 0) O1*
Soil cover, per cent 3729 40.6 NS
Leaf cover, per cent 51:3 36 21 Py OL05
Herb cover, per cent 10.8 24.3 NS
Trees class A, <0.5m high 8.6 20.0 NS
Trees class B, 0.5 - 2m high 4.0 10.4 Pe 0.05
Trees class C, 2 - 4m high rOAy. 220 NS
Trees class D, >4m high 2.6 ae NS
Tangle (0-5) ERE 3.4 NS*
Canopy cover, per cent 90.4 75.6 P 0.005
Notes: + = t-test, except * = Mann-Whitney U-test
Facial skin
All the fT.f. fischeri caught had a small patch of bare skin behind
each eye. This patch was coloured pink in six of the birds, and purp-
lish-blue in six of the others (the colour was unrecorded for one).
Two specimens in the collection of the National Museum, Nairobi, a
male and a female, both have the patch coloured "dark pinkish", as re-
corded on the labels. This thus seems unlikely to be a sexually di-
morphic character, despite the proportions observed.
Moult
All but four of the Spotted Ground Thrushes handled had completed wing
moult, including the first three birds captured (on 10 July) and all
five caught after 25 July. The four still moulting were well advanced
in replacement (primary scores, out of 50, were 38, 45, 47 and 49).
Moult thus appears to be completed by the end of July. A specimen
(No. 12287) in the National Museum, collected on 5 May 1966, was in
early moult (primary score 5) suggesting initiation shortly after ar-
Yival in the non-breeding quarters. To set against this, a bird ring-
ed in Sokoke by P.B. Taylor on 3 May 1981 had fresh primaries, indi-
cating replacement was already completed. Further information is re-
104 Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede
quired before any conclusion can be drawn.
General discussion
The results confirm that the Spotted Ground Thrush occurs at a much
greater overall density at Gede Ruins than in the nearby Sokoke For-
est. Britton & Rathbun (1978) suggest three reasons why the Gede
Ruins forest might be preferred: 1)*the accumulated detritus from the
prolonged occupation of Gede might have improved feeding opportunities
2) the birds might favour wetter areas of lowland forest, with rain-
fall greater than 1000mm/yr, 3) there might be a preference for the
uneven ground characteristic of coral rag.
The ‘accumulated detritus' hypothesis is unsatisfactory, since T.
fischeri shows a high seasonal abundance not only at Gede but also at
Jadini (Diani) and Shimoni (Britton 1980, Britton & Rathbun 1978, Ir-
vine & Irvine 1977a, 1977b, M.A.C. Coverdale pers.. comm.). The birds'
preference appears to be for coral rag Eorest in particular, nee
Simply for wet lowland forest: they are not more common in the lowland
rain forest sector of Sokoke than in the drier habitat types there
(Britton & Zimmerman 1979). The ground thrushes recorded in Sokoke
during the study period were captured in Afzelia forest (two birds)
and dry Cynometra thicket (one bird; Kelsey & Langton 1984). Substrate
evenness could conceivably affect the birds' habitat choice, but it
seems more likely on present evidence that they are selecting sites
with particular vegetation characteristics: areas of closed canopy
providing deep shade, thick leaf litter and scant or patchy low veg-
etation. The capture site of the Cynometra bird in Sokoke corres—
ponded precisely with this description; the canopy was much lower than
at Gede but almost completely closed (unfortunately the capture sites
of the other two Sokoke birds could not be visited). The species'
higher density on coral rag could thus be explained if tracts of
structurally suitable habitat occurred there more commonly than in
the other coastal forests. There is some evidence for this from tran-
sect work carried out to create vegetation profiles of Sokoke habitats
(Kelsey & Langton 1984). It is possible too that soil type and high
rainfall combine in the coral rag forests to improve conditions in the
leaf litter for the ground thrush's invertebrate prey. In this res-
pect it would be interesting to compare invertebrate productivity in
structurally similar areas of Sokoke and Gede.
Further ringing is required to establish wkether the apparent scar-
city of immature birds at Gede is a real phenomenon, and, if so, what
its causes are. However, this finding does illustrate clearly the
importance of locating T.f.fischeri's breeding grounds. Other races
are restricted to small patches of forest where the threat of habitat
destruction may be great.
As migratory coastal races, nominate fischeri and natalicus may be
contrasted with the apparently sedentary inland races belcheri and
maxis. The species, like the African Pitta Pitta angolensis, is one
of the very few true forest birds in Africa to show anything more than
altitudinal migration (Benson 1981). Britton -& Rathbun (1978) find
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 105
"surprising" the movements of the nominate race away from the Kenya
coast in months when food is readily available in the leaf litter. As
in any migratory species, however, events elsewhere must also be taken
into account; movements might, for instance, be timed to coincide with
a peak in food abundance in the breeding quarters. The onset of sea-
sonal rains usually has a direct effect on food supply, with insects
abundant in the early rains and remaining numerous until the end of
the wet season (Curry-Lindahl 1981). The Spotted Ground Thrush mi-
grates from the Kenya coast as the rains there end and those in the
southern tropics begin. The birds reappear in Kenya around March
(sertronm es Rathbun 1978) at the start of the coastal wet season (Brit-
ton 1980). If rainfall is the primary factor influencing the species'
Migration, it seems most likely that the birds breed in northern Moz-
ambique, as suggested by Benson to S.N. Stuart (pers. comm.). Since
this is one of the ornithologically least known areas of Africa
(Brooke 1984), and T.f. fischeri one of the more elusive of African
birds (Benson 1950, Chiazzari 1952), the undetected existence of a
small breeding population is not implausible. There is some mystery,
however, in the complete absence of records for Tanzania south of Pan-
gani (Britton & Rathbun 1978).
Despite the high density of non-breeding T.f. fischeri at Gede and
other coral rag forests, Sokoke Forest may well support the largest
total population while the birds are in Kenya. The results of this
study suggest that the Spotted Ground Thrush is unlikely to tolerate
much modification of its habitat; while the future of the Gede Ruins
forest seems reasonably secure, the proportion of primary forest re-
Maining in Sokoke continues to dwindle (Kelsey & Langton 1984). Much
more effective conservation measures must be introduced there if [7.f.
fischeri, and other rare animals, are to survive.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks to the Office of the President and the National Museums of
Kenya for research permission, to the sponsors of the U.E.A.-I.C.B.P.
Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Expedition and Clare College, Cambridge for
financial assistance, to the staff at Gede Ruins National Monument
for their interest and help, and to N. Collar, M.A.C. Coverdale, R.
McVicker, S.N. Stuart and G.R. Cunningham-van Someren for assistance
in various ways. G.C. Backhurst kindly allowed me access to EANHS
ringing records, while J. and S. Cheffings generously made available
accomodation in Malindi. Special thanks to the other members of the
Expedition, Gary Allport, John Bowler, Martin Kelsey and Tom Langton,
for their unflagging support. Gary Allport supervised ringing and
collected the moult data; my thanks to P.B. Taylor for additional
moult records. I am most grateful to Victor Caddy, Paul Kelly, Martin
Kelsey, P.B. Taylor and an anonymous referee for their criticism which
served materially to improve the paper.
106 Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede
REFERENCES
BENSON, C.W. 1950. Some notes on the Spotted Forest Thrush Turdus
fischeri. OSELIChH 213 (58—64 2
1952. A further note on the Spotted Forest Thrush Turdus
fischeri.: Ostriehi23 2:48.
1954. The status of Turdus fischeri belcheri. Bulletin of
the British Ornithologists’ Club 74: 88-90.
1981. Migrants in the Afrotropical region south of the
equator. "Ostrich 532 31-A9:
& BENSON, F.M. 1975. Studies of some Malawi birds Arn-
Oldia Rhodesia 7(32): 1-27.
BURRELL, J.H. & ABEL, R. 1976. A not so ‘extinct’ thrush on the Kenya
coast. EANHS Bulletin 1976: 32-33.
BRITTON, P.L. & RATHBUN, G.B. 1978. Two migratory thrushes and the Af-
rican) Pitta an coastal Kenya Scopus) 2-1) lye
& ZIMMERMAN, D.A. 1979. The avifauna of Sokoke Forest,
Kenya. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and Nat-
ional Museum 169: 1-16.
, BRITTON, H.A. & COVERDALE, M.A.C. 1980. The avifauna of
Mrima Hill, south Kenya coast. Scopus 4: 73-78.
BROOKE, R.K. 1984. Some specimen records from the Ruvuma River, front-
ier of Mozambique and Tanzania. Scopus 8: 30.
CHIAZZARI, W.L. 1952. Some observations on the Natal Forest Thrush,
Turdus fischeri natalicus. Ostrich 23: 49-50.
CLANCEY, P.A. 1955. Further as to the present status of (Turdus fisch-
eri natalicus) Grote. Ostrich 26: 164-165.
1957. Further records of the Spotted Thrush being killed
On Migratton. Ostrich 282-126-127.
CURRY-LINDAHL, K. 1981. Bird migration in Africa. Vol. 2, London:
Academic Press.
FORD, R.G. & MYERS, J.P. 1981. An evaluation and comparison of tech-
niques for estimating home range and territory size. In Ralph, C.J.
& Scott, M.J. Estimating numbers of terrestrial birds; pp. 461-465.
Studies in Avian Biology 6. Lawrence: Cooper Ornithological Society.
IRVINE, G.C. & IRVINE, D. 1977a. Down at Diani - October 1976. EANHS
Bulletin 1977: 85-86.
——<—<———— "_ 1977b. Notes on birds seen in Diani Forest,
Kenya. ibidem 1977: 106-108.
JENNRICH, R.I. & TURNER, F.B. 1969. Measurement of non-circular home
range. Journal of Theoretical Biology 22: 227-237.
KEITH, S. & TWOMEY, A. 1968. New distributional records for some East
African binds. 2£b7s 110-9537—548-
Spotted Ground Thrush at Gede 107
KELSEY, M.G. & LANGTON, T.E.S. 1984. The conservation of the Arabuko-
Sokoke Forest, Kenya. ICBP Study Report 4. Cambridge: ICBP.
MOOMAW, J.C. 1960. A study of the plant ecology of the coast region of
Kenya Colony, British East Africa. Nairobi: Government Printer.
NIKOLAUS, G. 1982. A new race of the Spotted Ground Thrush Turdus
fischeri from South Sudan. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists'
Club 101: 45-47.
APPENDIX
CALCULATION OF POPULATION SIZE
Consider a population of birds within a closed area A.
Assume
1) birds have circular home ranges, radius r (these may
overlap to any extent);
2) a mist net placed within A will catch all those birds
whose home range it intersects, i.e. all those with
home range centres distant <r from the net.
If several net lengths are used (separated from each other by <2r at
all points), the density of home range centres in the surrounding area
is given by
dad = N/(2Lr + imr? /2)
where
N = total number of birds caught
L = total net length
i = number of free net ends
This provides an estimate of the overall density of home range cent-
fa ene. Gf birds —-\in A.
The trapping and observation results indicate that assumption 2) is
probably valid for T.f. fischeri at Gede. The home range circularity
assumed in i) is for mathematical convenience; the estimate should not
be greatly in error if the assumption is invalid, provided that home
Yanges are oriented randomly with respect to the nets. Net sites
were well distributed over the forest, which should increase the esti-
mate's accuracy.
In this case, r = 21m, L = 513m (including short gaps between
nets), i = 18, N = 10 and d = 2.9 birds/ha. The forest area at Gede
is some 39ha, giving a total population of 113 7.f. fischeri. The
figures calculated must be upper limits, since r may well be under-
estimated.
L.A. Bennun, Clare College, Cambridge CB2 1TL, UK; current address:
Box 21149, Nairobi, Kenya
(Received 20 February 1985)
108 Short communications
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
TWO ADDITIONS TO THE SOMALIA LIST: GREATER FRIGATEBIRD FREGATA
MINOR AND INDIAN HOUSE CROW CORVUS SPLENDENS
Greater Frigatebird Fregata minor
Difficulties in identifying frigatebirds Fregata spp. in the field
have not been aided by various unhelpful and often misleading descrip-
tions of their various sex and age categories. The results of Harris-
on's (1983) detailed study and his illustrations of each sex and age
category for all the species are of particular value, and permit al-
most every frigatebird seen reasonably well to be identified.
Since the 'Birds of Somalia' (Ash & Miskell 1983) was written I have
had the opportunity to see many hundreds of frigatebirds of three
species, and have spent much time in identifying the various sex and
age groups from field sketches. As a result some earlier identifi-
cations require revision and birds claimed to be Lesser Frigatebirds
F.ariel in Somalia are reidentified. The details of plumage are not
given here in the following list of records of F. minor, for they can
be found in Harrison (1983) by referring to the relevant sex and age
category.
‘
a. Gezira (1.56N, 45.11E), 1 November 1978, 1 juvenile ist stage white
breasted form drifting NE along the coast.
b. Gezira, 8 August 1979, 1 as above feeding with terns Sterninae.
c. Mogadishu (2.02N, 45.21E), 24 November 1980, 1 immature male 2nd
stage, drifting SW along the coast.
d. Mallable (2.12N, 45.37E), 16 October 1981, 1 juvenile 1st stage
white-breasted form, drifting NE along the coast.
e. Gezira, 12 November 1981, 1 (as d. above), feeding with flocks of
terns.
£. Gezira, 16 November 1981, 3 (as d. above), feeding with a flock of
terns.
g. Gezira, 24 July 1980, 2 frigatebirds drifting slowly NE high abov
the sea in poor visibility were probably minor.
Of the eight individuals of minor recorded, one was in August and
the remainder within a period of less than six weeks during 16 Octobe
to 24 November. All the birds were in juvenile/immature plumage, but
this does not necessarily represent recent fledging for this plumage
may be retained for up to 2 years (Diamond 1975). The race F.m. al-
dabrensis breeding in the western Indian Ocean south of the equator o
Aldabra, Tromelin and Cargados Shoals (Harrison 1983), is character-
ized in immature birds by white or yellowish-white heads (Diamond
1975). The evidence suggests that the birds seen in Somalia belong t
this race.
The distribution maps in Harrison (1983) show both F. minor and ar-
Short communications 109
iel along the eastern coast of Africa extending from Mozambique as far
north as the equator in Somalia in the case of minor (and South Africa
‘as outside its normal range), and ariel extending to about 5 degrees N
(and the Gulf of Aden as being outside the normal range). Brown et
al. (1982) show minor extending continuously from South Africa to the
equator in Somalia, but ariel from about Dar es Salaam in Tanzania
along the whole of the Somalia coast to about 15 degrees N in the
Ethiopian Red Sea. However, there is only one record of ariel from
Somalia (Archer & Godman 1937), and previously there have been no rec-
ords of minor (Ash & Miskell 1983). Further south in East Africa, al-
though there are numerous records of unidentified frigatebirds, there
is only one of ariel from Tanzania, and three records of minor - two
from Kenya and one from Tanzania (Britton 1980). Bailey (1968) found
F.ariel and other unidentified frigatebirds off the coasts of Somal-
ia, Kenya and Tanzania, but they were far out to sea - the closest to
land being over 60 km out.
The new entry for the Somalia check-list is:
19a Fregata minor aldabrensis*+ Greater Frigatebird 29
Rare non-breeding visitor with 8 recent records on SE coast in
Aug, Oct, Nov. 63cd, 69a.
The previous entry for ariel needs to be amended as follows:
19. Fregata ariel iredalei Lesser Frigatebird+ 30
An old record of 2 birds on the NW coast in Jul. 2a. (Also 2 un-
identified Fregata in the SE in Jul.)
Indian House Crow Corvus splendens
Of special interest now that Indian House Crows are increasing in sev-
eral areas and have acquired pest status, is a report by Davis (1951)
which was overlooked when the ‘Birds of Somalia’ was being prepared
(Ash & Miskell 1983). He describes how four house crows were blown
on to his ship as he was leaving Colombo, Sri Lanka, and remained
aboard for six days until they flew off at Cape Guardafui (11.50N, 51.
17E) , Somalia, where they were watched through binoculars as they flew
ashore. Ship-assisted passage of this sort has been attributed for
the spread of this species to other areas (e.g. Feare & Watson 1984),
but it must be rarely possible to substantiate the claim. There is an
unconfirmed report of them doing damage to dates at Bulhar (10.23N,
44.25E) in northern Somalia in 1972, but searches by J.E. Miskell and
myself failed to find any there in 1979.
The new entry for the Somalia check-list is:
406a Corvus splendens protegatus Indian House Crow 1174
One old record of the Sri Lankan race from the NE. 7a.
REFERENCES
ARCHER, G.F. & GODMAN, E.M. 1937. The birds of British Somaliland and
the Gulf of Aden. Vols 1 & 2 London: Gurney & Jackson.
ASH, J.S. & MISKELL, J.E. 1983. Birds of Somalia their habitat, status
110 Short communications
and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. l.
BAILEY, R.S. 1968. The pelagic distribution of sea-birds in the west-
ern Indian Ocean. Ibis 110: 493-519.
DAVIS, M. 1951. Ocean vessels and the distribution of birds. Auk 68:
529-530.
DIAMOND, A.W. 1975. Biology and behaviour of frigatebirds Fregata spp.
on Aldabra atoll. Ibis 117: 302-323.
FEARE, C.J. & WATSON, J. 1984. Occurrence of migrant birds in the Sey-
chelles. In Stoddart, D.R. (ed.) Biogeography and ecology of the
Seychelles Islands. The Hague: Dr W. Junk.
HARRISON, P. 1983. Seabirds an identification guide. Beckenham: Croom
Helm.
J.S. Ash, Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History,
Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. 20560, U.S.A.
Scopus 9: 108-110, September 1985 Received 8 May 1985
A RECORD OF THE LESSER FRIGATEBIRD FREGATA ARIEL FROM KENYA
During mid January 1980, my daughter Laria and I were at the Ocean
Sports Hotel, near Watamu, Kenya (3.21S, 40.01E), outside one of the
hotel's cottages on the rise behind the beach. We saw a frigatebird
Fregata sp. flying northwards, inland of the line of casuarina trees
which grow along the top of the beach. We had never seen a frigate-
bird in the wild before, but I know them well from films. The bird
passed overhead at a height of about 40-50 feet (12-15m), and I ob-
tained good views of the underside through binoculars.
Field identification of frigatebirds is difficult (see Harrison
1983), but this individual was readily recognizable as an adult male
Lesser Frigatebird Fregata ariel by its unique ventral plumage pattern
which was entirely black apart from a clearly visible oval white patch
on each flank, which tapered to a point on the underwing. The flight
was leisurely, with very slow, bouyant wing-beats. I immediately made
a sketch of the bird's general shape and underside pattern, but did
not record the exact date as I was unaware of the absence of earlier
records of this species in Kenya. The time was about 16:15 - 16:30,
and the date was between 12 and 15 January. The weather was clear,
with a light breeze.
The race F.a. iredalei breeds on islands in the western Indian Ocean
and disperses north to the coasts of India and Somalia (Harrison 1983,
Ash & Miskell 1983), however, Ash (1985) has reappraised the Somalia
records so that its status in that country now rests on a single old
record of two birds in the NW. The only certain records of the
species from the eastern seaboard of Africa south of Kenya are single
reports in October (a skull) and May at Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (Brit-
ton 1980, East African Bird Report 1983, Harrison 1983). The present
record is the first of the species from Kenya.
Short communications 5 Ls ia
I am most grateful to Adrian Lewis for his help in drafting this
note, and in particular for his provision of background information
and literature.
REFERENCES
ASH, J.S. 1985. Two additions to the Somalia list: Greater Frigatebird
Fregata minor and Indian House Crow Corvus splendens. Scopus 9: 108-
110.
& MISKELL, J.E. 1983. Birds of Somalia their habitat, status
and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. l.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT 1983. Scopus 7: 105-148.
HARRISON, P. 1983. Seabirds an identification guide. Beckenham: Croom
Helm.
Lavinia Grant, El Karama Ranch, Box 172, Nanyuki, Kenya
Scopus 9: 110-111, September 1985 Received 1 August 1985
NOTES ON BEHAVIOUR AND PLUMAGE DIMORPHISM IN LAGDEN'S
BUSH SHRIKE MALACONOTUS LAGDENI
Lagden's Bush Shrike Malaconotus lagdeni has rarely been recorded in
East Africa (East Africa Natural History Society 1982). During Sep-
tember 1984 I observed this species on three occasions in the Bwindi
Forest (formerly known as the Impenetrable Forest), southwestern
Uganda. These observations may be of interest since virtually nothing
seems to be known of the habits of this uncommon bird (Bannerman 1939,
Chapin 1954, Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1970, Lippens & Wille 1976). An
hitherto unknown plumage variant is also described and discussed.
The species was first observed at 2300m on the northern perimeter
of the Forest Reserve near Ruhizha Forest Station (1.02S, 29.46E), in
patchy, disturbed forest on a steep hillside. The bird appeared a
very large and thickset bush shrike with an extremely heavy black
bill, immediately recognizable as M. lagdeni by its striking black,
yellow-tipped inner secondaries and wing coverts. The face, crown,
nape and upper mantle were dark grey, sharply demarcated from the dark
green lower mantle. Below, the throat and upper breast were bright
orange-yellow, merging into yellow on the belly and under-tail cov-
erts; the flanks were pale green. The bird was perched on a stout
horizontal branch, against which it was beating a large, uniformly
green insect, probably a katydid (Orthoptera: Tettigonidae).
A second bush shrike alighted nearby a moment later. It was of
identical size and shape to the first, but of quite different plumage.
The upperparts resembled those of the first bird, except that the
crown, face and upper mantle were brownish-grey, this colour merging
into that of the lower mantle. The underparts, however, were almost
entirely clear, uniform white; the only colour was a little pale yel-
ig? Short communications
low on the under tail coverts and thighs and, again, a green wash on
the flanks.
The two birds were watched as they moved together through the trees,
keeping to the middle levels. They flew heavily, the wings making a
loud flapping noise, from one large branch to another, bouncing rap-
idly along the boughs after alighting. Both birds called often,
uttering a loud, harsh grating chaarr, chaarr.
On two subsequent occasions single M. lagdeni, both of normal plu-
mage, were observed. One was seen on 4 September high in a tree in
valley forest at 2100m near the Kaserasere River (1.03S, 29.45E); it
too was dispatching what appeared to be a katydid by hitting it vig-
orously against a stout branch. Another, again at 2300m, was moving
quietly through small trees in secondary growth on a hillside just
north of Ruhizha Forest Station. These sightings were respectively
1.6 and 0.7km from the first; three sightings within a small area
suggest that at least in Bwindi M. lagdeni may not be as scarce as has
been supposed (Britton 1980); it is also encouraging that the birds
appear to be utilizing even areas where the forest has undergone con-
siderable disturbance.
DISCUSSION
The colouration of the second bird seen is interesting. The crown
and face accord with Chapin's description of juvenile plumage (Chapin
1954). However, the beak was black, not grey-brown as in juveniles.
‘Chapin (1954) does not clearly describe the colour of the underparts
in young birds, but Lippens & Wille (1976) remark that they have
"white spots on the throat and belly, and have the breast grey-white,
later marked with horizontal bars", quite unlike the uniform white of
the bird observed. The colours of the bill and underparts indicate
that the bird was not a juvenile but an adult with unusual plumage.
Plumage polymorphism is a well known phenomenon in Malaconotus, and
has been documented and discussed by Moreau & Southern (1958) and
Hall, Moreau & Galbraith (1966). The latter authors divide the mem-
bers of the genus dealt with into two groups, one of large species
(the Uluguru Bush Shrike M. alius, Grey-headed Bush Shrike M. blan-
choti, Fiery-breasted Bush Shrike M. cruentus, Green-breasted Bush
Shrike M. gladiator, and Lagden's Bush Shrike) and one of small
species (Many-coloured Bush Shrike M. multicolor, Black-fronted Bush
Shrike M. nigrifrons, Olive Bush Shrike M. olivaceus, and Sulphur-
breasted Bush Shrike M. sulfureopectus). Plumage pcelymorphism is
known only in certain populations of species in the 'small' group,
where the predominant morphs in a particular area appear to parallel
the plumage of the sympatric 'large' species (Hall et al. 1966).
Nontheless, on the basis of current plumage differences between spe-
cies in the 'large' group it is hypothesized that the groups arose
from a common, polymorphic ancestor. Shifting selective pressures,
it is supposed, have eliminated polymorphism in the 'large' group, but
some populations of the 'small' species still exhibit it.
Short communications 113
Three allelomorphic loci are required to account for the observed
patterns of colouration in the genus (Hall et al. 1966): one control-
ling the presence or absence of ventral carotenoid, another the col-
our (red/yellow) of any carotene that is present, and a third the
incidence of ventral eumelanin. These dimorphisms interact with poly-
genic variation in plumage colour. In the 'large' group the only
plumage variant Hall et al. (1966) recorded was a specimen of M. blan-
choti from Mpanda, western Tanzania, that lacked carotene anywhere in
the plumage. This does not correspond with the pattern in the ‘'small'
group, where acaratenoidal birds have normal upperparts but little or
no carotene below. Such birds, occurring in all 'small' species but
the non-polymorphic M. sulfureopectus, have buff underparts. There is
geographical variation in the extent to which dilute phaeomelanin oc-
curs in the underparts, and, coincidentally, these acaratenoidal birds
are known only from populations where ventral phaeomelanin is present;
it is this phaeomelanin that gives rise to the buff colour. However,
the incidence of phaeomelanin is entirely irrelevant to the dimorphism
in carotene distribution. An acaratenoidal bird without ventral phae-
omelanin would resemble the Bwindi M. lagdeni, with normal carotene
above (as in the yellow tips to the inner secondaries and wing cov-
erts) but the underparts largely white. (Note that yellow on the
under tail coverts is frequently observed in acaratenoidal birds: Mor-
eau & Southern 1958.) There is no obvious parallel in other species
with the brownish-grey colour on the head of the Bwindi bird, but the
‘olive’ phase of M.olivaceus (caratenoidal) also has an exceptional
crown colour, in this case olive-green.
It thus appears possible that the Bwindi bird is an example of an
hitherto unknown acaratenoidal morph of M. lagdeni, and that the basis
of this dimorphism (although not its appearance) is identical to that
in the small species. As Hall et al. (1966) note, residual polymor-
phism in some populations of the 'large' species is to be expected on
their hypothesis. Confirmation of the existence of this dimorphism
in M. lagdeni would provide strong additional evidence that the two
groups of Malaconotus had a single common polymorphic ancestor.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
These observations were made during the Cambridge Bwindi Forest
Study Group's expedition to the forest in 1984. I thank the Ugandan
Forest Department and National Research Council for research per-
mission, and the sponsors of the expedition for making it possible
for us to go to Uganda. Malaconotus lagdeni was identified with the
aid of field glasses generously donated by Longmans U.K. Limited. My
sincere thanks to the many people who helped us in various ways, and
in particular to D.E. Pomeroy and D. Tukahabwa. I am grateful to
P.B. Taylor for his comments on a draft of this note.
REFERENCES
BANNERMAN, D. 1939. The birds of tropical West Africa. Vol 5, London:
The Crown Agents for the Colonies.
114 Short communications
CHAPIN, J.P. 1954. The birds of the Belgian Congo, Pt 4, Bulletin of
the American Museum of Natural History 75B.
EAST AFRICA NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY 1982. East African Rare Bird List
Scopus (6) Supplement.
HALL, B.P., MOREAU, R.E. & GALBRAITH, I.C.J. 1966. Polymorphism and
parallelism in the African bush shrikes of the genus Malaconotus
(including Chlorophoneus). Ibis 108: 161-182.
LIPPENS, L. & WILLE, H. 1976. Les oiseaux du Zaire. Tielt: Lannoo.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1970. African handbook of birds.
Series III, vol. 2, Birds of West and West-Central Africa. London:
Longmans.
MOREAU, R.E. & SOUTHERN, H.N. 1958. Geographical variation and poly-
morphism of bush shrikes. Proceedings of the Zoological Society of
London 130: 301-328. .
L.A. Bennun, Clare College, Cambridge CB2 1TL, UK; current address:
Box 21149, Nairobi, Kenya
Scopus 9: 111-114, September 1985 Received 2 July 1985
Reviews 145
Threatened birds of Africa and related islands. The ICBP/IUCN Red
Data Book, Part 1 (3rd Edition) by N.J. Collar and S.N. Stuart.
Pp. xxxiv + 761 and 12 colour plates by Norman Arlott; 160 x 240mm,
case bound; ISBN 2 88032 6044. Cambridge: ICBP and IUCN, 1985. Price
£24 (free mailing) from ICBP. In East Africa from D.A. Turner, ICBP,
Box 48019, Nairobi - £24, US$30 or KShs. 500/-, postage free.
By its very definition, this is a depressing book, but nevertheless
one which has been written with great scholarship and has been beau-
tifully produced and printed. People interested in African birds and
their conservation will want to own a copy, not just for reference but
for dipping into frequently.
After a thirty-page introduction the main part of the book sets out,
species by species, to review the 172 threatened ones. The authors
use the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Re-
sources' (IUCN) categories of threat: Extinct (not seen in the last
fifty years, i.e. may not be extinct), Endangered, Vulnerable, In-
determinate, Rare and Insufficiently Known. Over a hundred other spe-
cies which warrant concern for their survival are treated in append-
ices.
The length of text devoted to each species varies greatly, depending
on the amount known about the bird and the extent of its geographical
range. Thus a species such as Turdus kibalensis, as far as is known
restricted to one forest, receives less than two pages whereas the
very wide-ranging Geronticus eremita has 35. Each species' account is
treated uniformly, and very clearly set out. The main heading in-
cludes the bird's taxonomic position and the IUCN category of threat;
there follow eight sub-headings including those covering distribution,
population, ecology, threats, conservation measures (proposed and
taken) and an extremely thorough and up-to-date list of references.
The authors have done a superb job in producing what amounts to a set
of species' monographs, each of which gives a sound basis for future
study and conservation planning. Norman Arlott's twelve full-page
colour plates are very fine and add to the value of the book, being of
species rarely, if ever, figured before.
The two-page Foreword by the ICBP director Christoph Imboden and the
authors' Introduction treat the subject of conservation in Africa suc-
cinctly and with deep understanding. In most cases it is not a quest-
ion of trying to preserve a species per se, but of preserving a habi-
tat - often very small in area and often forest in type. Thus habitat
preservation is, in most case, the lesson to get across to the people
responsible for conservation in Africa. Although the frightening
human population growth of most African countries is often thought of
as the reason for forest destruction, in many cases this is not so.
The real reason is that there is a market for the timber the forest
produces; people are willing to pay, so the forest disappears.
There can be little hope for the survival of many of the birds in
this book until the people of Africa themselves value the habitats in
which the birds are found. The problem of bird conservation in Africa
116 Reviews, notice
is not similar to that of the conservation of large mammals and carni-
vores. The endangered birds are not threatening man, nor are they
being killed by man. They are just unfortunate in living in habitats
that man seems bent on destroying.
Proceedings of the Fifth Pan African Ornithological Congress, John
Ledger (ed.). Pp. 885, 165 x 240mm, thread-sewn, soft back. Johan-
nesburg: SAOS for the 5th PAOC Organizing Committee, 1984; ISBN 0620
050578. Price US$45 or £25 (including postage) from SAOS, Box 87234,
Houghton, Johannesburg, 2041 South Africa.
This long-awaited book presents the 57 papers delivered at the Malawi
Congress plus some thirty pages of preliminary matter. The text has
been set on a typewriter (like Scopus but with less reduction) and
printed on very good quality paper (hence its weight (mass) of over 1%
kg) . \
Papers with a bearing on eastern Africa are: Brown & Pomeroy - age
structure of population, Hanmer - Ploceus xanthopterus and Pycnonot-
idae (two papers), Pomeroy & Muringo - semi-arid bird populations,
Dowsett-Lemaire & Dowsett - montane birds, Backhurst & Pearson -
Ngulia migration timing, Gichuki - granivorous birds in eastern Kenya,
Meadows - dabbling ducks in Kenya, Britton, Stuart & Turner - East
African endangered birds, Short & Horne - duetting in ground barbets,
Brown & Brown - food supply/breeding seasons, Colebrook-Robjent -
breeding of Chrysococcyx caprius, Colias - Pseudonigrita arnaudi soci-
al behaviour, Urban - Pelecanus onocrotalus breeding, and Sumba & Pom-
eroy - sibling aggression in Haliaeetus vocifer.
The Proceedings are a must for all those interested in African
ornithology.
(Reviews by G.C. Backhurst)
NOTICE
Check-list of the birds of Uganda: this A5-sized list, uniform with
those published by the OSC for Kenya and Tanzania, has been compiled
by Drs Margaret Carswell and Derek Pomeroy. It is available from
the East African Natural History Society office at the National
Museum in Nairobi for KShs. 20/- to personal callers. Those wishing
to order by mail should write to D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi,
Kenya mentioning whether they want air or surface delivery; details
will be sent to them.
The second edition of the Check-list of the birds of Kenya mentioned
in the last issue of Scopus (9: 1) has been slightly delayed; however,
it should be published by the end of the year or in early January
1986.
_ Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the form
used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case of books, the
town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of works, which are cited
frequently, should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s) of the author(s) and date(s)
of publication should be given in the text in the normal way. |
All contributions, which will be acknowledged, should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi.
WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al. 1971. .
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa. Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al. 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation inAfrican Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa. 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands. London: Academic Press,
= Moreau 1966.
1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems. London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
This forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar year. Records of
Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in early in the new year to
ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
through to any OS-C member (numbers inside front cover) in the hope that the bird(s)
may be seen by others.
Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
June 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
BIRDS OF EAST AFRICA
(Copies of this 270-page book are available from the Secretary, EANHS, Box 44486, Nairobi,
for Stg£8.00 or US$17.00 surface mail to anywhere in the world.
ia
ICINAMREE
CONTENTS
PETER LACK. The ecology of the land-birds of Tsavo East National
Park, Kenya . . 2. «=. 5 6 ©: 6 se: 6 Bis) 5) cee Seen nn on
L.A. BENNUN. The Spotted Ground Thrush Turdus fischeri fischeri
at Gede in coastal Kenya .. . . % «5 35) eon,
Short communications
J.S. ASH. Two additions to the Somalia list:
Greater Frigatebird Fregata minor and
Indian House Crow Corvus splendens ..... . 108
LAVINIA GRANT. A record of the Lesser Frigate-
bird Fregata ariel from Kenya” 3 3) one
L.A. BENNUN. Notes on behaviour and plumage
dimorphism in Lagden's Bush Shrike
Malaconotus lagdeni . . s « © =) acne ole
ReviewS . . 2 6 6 © 6 6 6 we 6 6 ee ee ee) res eae os
NOELCE 206 6 et ee Swe ee ee ee ee OES)
9
Printed in Kenya by AMREF, Box 30125, Nairobi
QL ISSN 0250-4162
L4 2 |
14s 42
1 cds
SCOPUS
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
7 ERNTHSON Ay
f jun 16 1986
“a eer
\ —.6_ ba
Volume 9 (4) December 1985
SCOPUS
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues may be combined to allow,
for long papers) by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the East African Natural History
Society. Subscriptions are payable to the OS-C Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turner
[tel, 48772] , Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates:
East African residents: KShs 100.00 (KShs 107.50 up-country).
Overseas, surface mail: Stg£6.00, US$12.00 or equivalent in convertible currency.
Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
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Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Those
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No. 2852601,
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Other members of the Ornithological Sub-Committee
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30197, Nairobi; house tel. 47041
G.C. Backhurst (Editor of Scopus and Ringing Organizer, Box 24702, Nairobi; house tel. |
891419, office tel, 500508, 501301 |
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J.H. Fanshawe, U.K.; Mrs Cecilia Gichuki, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Dar es Salaam; Dr W.
Karanja, Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Nairobi; B.S. Meadows, U.K.; Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Kampala;
J.F. Reynolds, U.K.; D.K. Richards, Nairobi; T. Stevenson, Baringo and Nairobi. |
NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS
Scopus welcomes original contributions in English on all aspects of the ornithology of
eastern Africa. Contributions will be assessed by the members of the OS-C and/or by —
independent referees. The material published in Scopus is divided into ‘papers’ and ‘short |
communications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length. Authors of ‘papers’
are entitled to five copies of their contribution gratis. Extra copies, which will be supplied
at cost, must be ordered when the MS is submitted. :
Contributions should be typed in 1% or double spacing on one side of the paper only,
with wide margins all round, and should be submitted in duplicate. Exceptionally clear
hand-written MSS will be considered but these too should be sent in duplicate. Both English
and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is first mentioned, thereafter
only one should be used; they should be those of Birds of East Africa unless the species |
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Tables, which should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, NOT grouped on
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typed on a separate sheet of paper. Photographs will ae be considered.
| Scopus 9 (4), December 1985
NOTES ON SOME BIRDS OF THE ARABUKO-SOKOKE FOREST
PeatesrSnert andyiJ. .biMse.Horne
From 8 December 1984 to 2 January 1985 we studied honeyguides,
_barbets and woodpeckers in the Afzelia-Brachystegia and, mainly the
| Brachystegia woodland area for some 6} km along the track bordering
the south side of the Nature Reserve in the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest
(see Britton & Zimmerman 1979, and Kelsey & Langton 1984, for
description and map). We set the locality as 11-18 km WSW of Gedi
at 0:18S, 39:55E. While there we observed, as our research
permitted, other birds of this unique and threatened forest. We
| report new observations or unusual behaviour of 13 species. Most
of these observations took place along the track or near the Nature
;
|
:
Reserve's southern boundary track at 3-5 km in from the entrance.
We tape-recorded many of the species reported here, but vocal
analyses will appear elsewhere.
Southern Banded Snake Eagle Circaetus fasciolatus
At 10:15 to 10:45 on 13 December we heard a low, regular series of
sounds overhead, and observed a Southern Banded Snake Eagle very
high above, soaring in regular circles we judged to be | km in
diameter. No visual displays other than the soaring were noted.
Its call, repeated about every 5-10 s as the bird soared was a
ka-ka-ka-ka-KAW, recorded on tape. According to Brown et al.
(1982: 345) the species voice is not recorded on tape, although
they well render it verbally. Again at 09:58 on 14th, presumably
the same bird soared and called for 20 min overhead, the notes
rendered ka-ka-ka-ka-KA-OH and ka-ka-ka-ka-KAAA. We did not observe
it again until we heard it calling similarly overhead at 09:45 on
2 January. Brown & Amadon (1968) assume the crowing call given in
soaring flight is related to breeding (nuptial flights), which may
be the case.
Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus
Bateleurs occasionally appeared over the Brachystegia-Afzelia area
of the forest where we were conducting our honeyguide and barbet
studies. At 11:00 on 13 December, over the trees to the north of
the track, we saw a male Bateleur flying strangely, its long wings
beating far upward and downward in apparently heavy, laboured flight
quite in contrast to its normal soaring flight. As it crossed above
an open area between trees it momentarily switched to the typical
The authors would have preferred to depart from the following Birds
of East Africa English names (their preference in brackets): Chestnut-
fronted Helmet Shrike and Retz's Helmet Shrike (Helmet-shrike), Drongo
(African Drongo) and Indian House Crow (House Crow). Dr Short will
make a case for these and other deviations with G.S. Keith (in prep).
Ed.
Scopus 9: 117-126, December 1985
eS Notes on Sokoke birds
soaring flight, then peculiarly flew in two tight (diameter 300-400m)
circles, mixing its flight every few seconds from normal soaring to
wings beating downward and outward, as if braking; at all times its
yellow-orange legs dangled beneath it. Quick reversals of these two
patterns occurred, giving a 'jerky' circular pattern of flight at
perhaps 30 m above the trees. At times the "braking" action was so
pronounced that the bird's head, raised during the beating-wing
portion of the display flight, was far back and the dangling legs
actually were out in front of the bird's head, the wings fluttering.
The only described display somewhat resembling this is an aggressive
up-down stretching of a bird while perched (Brown 1955). Repeated
ka-ka-ka calls were uttered during the circular flights. Normal
soaring took the bird perhaps 40 m along its path, then as if being
reined back, its head would go up and back, it called, the legs
were thrust forward, and the wings rapidly beat up and down. We saw
the bird through gaps in the trees on the north horizon; it made at
least two full circles, probably more, over 10 min, and some 30 of
the 'braking' portions of the flight display were well observed. No
female was noted, but she may have been perched, or elsewhere about
the male, for a pair flew over us from the north to the east (towards
the Afzelia forest) the next day (14 December). In any case, we
observed the male well enough to be certain that he was not directly
engaged in a mutual display, for he did not dive and no female
appeared. The display usually ascribed to them (see Brown & Amadon
1968) has the female turning on her back in flight and presenting
her claws upward to his.
We saw and heard the same or another male performing the display
flight just described between 11:20 and 11:28 on 30 December. This
form of display flight to our knowledge has not been described before
(e.g. Brown & Amadon 1968, Brown et al. 1982).
‘Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola
A display of this widespread dove was observed closely on 28 December.
A presumed male perched near us had been singing regularly. Suddenly
the singer flew up simultaneously accompanied by its presumed mate,
who flew from an adjacent tree. Both flew parallel and upward some
10-12 m, then each flew in a circle in the opposite direction, one
to the right, the other to the left, their flight a floating, soaring
display with wings outstretched; both then completed their circle
parallel to one another, and they dropped together to perch side by
side on a dead branch. The male landed with feathers puffed out and
commenced bowing to the (apparent) female, giving a series of soft
huffy coo-coo-oo0-oo notes before her, as she crouched beside him
with plumage appressed. She then flew away, the presumed male
following her closely. Such a mutual display of two birds in
flight was not mentioned by Goodwin (1970), nor can we find any
reference to it elsewhere. .
Thick-billed Cuckoo Pachycoccyx audeberti
Occasionally this cuckoo flew over us in display flight, wings
flapping or in soaring flight as it is called (voice recorded); we
Notes on Sokoke birds 119
sometimes heard it calling at'a distance. These display flights
occurred throughout December, at which time Chestnut-fronted Helmet
Shrikes Prionops scopifrons, a likely host, and probably Retz's
Helmet Shrike P. retzii, definitely a host (Vernon 1985), were
beginning to breed. On 20 December at 10:25 we observed an apparent
pair flying parallel to one another in a wide circling pattern over
the treetops; only one bird was uttering the characteristic whistled
phwee-eee-bit, phwee-eee-bit call (in series of 1-10, at 4 sets per
5 s) as we recorded the voice on tape. These were much faster than
the one per 3 s were-wick calls of Vernon's birds (1985: 831).
Previously we had heard and seen the single bird's display flight
in approximately the same area during July 1982. We did not observe
the group displays reported by Vernon (1985) in Zimbabwe, but the
solo and duo flights are similar to those he described. Brown &
Britton (1980: 63) give a November oviduct egg date from the Tana
River, and the birds we observed were likely breeding.
Béhm's Spinetail Neafrapus boehmi
We tape-recorded voices of these spinetails as they flew in groups
of three to six over the Brachystegia woodland. As we conducted
our primary studies we noticed that their calls and activity
centred over a semi-open area about 60 m in diameter to the north
of the Nature Reserve boundary track. They seemed to display,
flying fast, then floating in twos and threes over this area,
uttering chittering calls. At 10:20 on 26 December, while we looked
carefully at a nearly dead (one branch bore leaves) Brachystegia
spiciformis, Short decided to scratch its bark; then out of a
chimney-like hole 3} m up, between the two main forks of the tree
flew a B6hm's Spinetail. What it was doing in the hole we do not
know, but of course we suspected nesting. At 10:32 a group of six
spinetails circled low over the same tree, dipping down, 'buzzing'
it in twos and threes, and twittering. None went into the tree.
Later that day we watched the area over the tree to see if they
would enter it. At 16:56 a group of three flew low over the area,
twittering as they shifted from their slow-appearing normal flight
to a spread dihedral, fluttering, then speeding up as they zoomed
over the tree. At such times the two uttered their chittering
bydddyew-tyew, or zew-tew, tyew-tyew notes. We saw them again at
17:05, 17:25 and 18:16; at 18:16 Mottle-throated Spinetails
Telecanthura ussheri and Palm Swifts Cypsiurus parvus were also
flying higher overhead. At 18:33 the spinetails bulleted very low
past the hole in the tree. At 18:38, in the gathering darkness four
twittered in a circle overhead. Finally, at 18:48 we heard them
above and they dived, at least one going straight down into the hole.
Hence the cavity at least was used for roosting. We continued to
see them daily, trying again on 28 December to descry their roosting.
Although a group appeared over the tree at 18:30, none entered the
hole that night.
On 30 December we watched at the tree from 07:45. The spinetails
called and circled it at 08:05, then at 09:05, at 09:10 to 09:14,
and at 09:21. The birds now were zooming by the hole in dropping
120 Notes on Sokoke birds
flight from east to west, first one, then a pair down, then up again,
twittering all the while. This was repeated at 09:25. Later, at
14:04, we observed a large monitor lizard put its head out of the
hole, then duck back down inside. We do not know if it had been
there before this day.
On 31 December we brought a ladder to examine the hole in the tree.
The large opening into the centre of the tree was 28 cm across, and
a small (10 cm) opening was located a metre below. The monitor
lizard was not inside. The cavity proved to be a complete hollow,
with just an outer shell, from the base of the tree, at which it was
perhaps 45 cm across, up through both branches, one of which ended
in a broken stub with a 10-cm hole - this branch was entirely hollow,
and too small for the lizard to enter. We found no signs of nests
in the main hollow trunk, but the configuration of the opening and
branches prevented us from looking up the hollow branches, which the
swifts, once entering the main opening, could safely have used.
On | January we watched at the hole until 19:00, from a hide close
to the tree. Although the spinetails 'buzzed' the tree at 18:15
and 18:33, none was seen to enter, but a bat left the hole at 18:50.
The next day (2 January) the spinetails actively swirled around the
tree, which was the only place in the area where we saw them descend
so low, and gave their twittering calls at 09:27-09:30, 09:45, 10:00
and noon.
There were other trees, particularly Rrachystegia spiciformis,
that had large holes in the trunk where branches had broken off, and
the wood had rotted away. We think it likely that such natural holes
and not man-made wells and mine shafts (in which théy are known to
nest (Maclean 1985), but which do not occur, nor did they ever occur,
throughout the range of N. boehmi) will prove to be the usual nesting
and roosting situation of these spinetails. Maclean (1985: 369)
noted that nests have been found in baobab hollows, as well as in
wells and mine shafts. Brown & Britton (1980: 68) mention a record
accepted "with some reserve'' from A.D. Forbes-Watson of three young
in "an underground chamber at Sokoke", in late January-early
February (year unknown).
Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti and Brown-hooded Kingfisher
H. albiventris
Both species were calling and 'duetting' during December. We
observed frequent interactions between them. The distribution of
the singing birds and their points of interaction suggest that their
territories are largely or entirely overlapping. The possibility
that they may maintain interspecific territories needs study. Most
chases followed an approach by one or two of the smaller chelicuti
to a calling, larger albiventris, e.g. at 09:21 on 3 December. Some
vocal portions of these interactions were recorded on tape.
Chestnut-fronted Helmet Shrike Prionops scopifrons
This helmet shrike was observed more frequently than Retz's Helmet
Shrike and was dominant to the latter in encounters when groups met.
Notes on Sokoke birds 12s
Groups of scopifrons contained 4-12 individuals, but the nesting
activity we observed did not involve more than four birds. We
frequently noted individuals carrying fibrous nesting material at
different sites during December. On 27 December we discovered a
mest under construction by some members of a 10-bird group. The
nest was situated in the lower canopy (height about 18 m) of a 25m
Brachystegia spiciformis on a horizontal branch 3.5 cm thick, 12 cm
beyond a fork, and consisted at the time of a 14-cm cup of fibres
and lichens. The site was at a slight bump or rise on the branchlet,
into which the nest appeared to merge. At least two birds carried
materials, but other individuals (one or two) accompanied them to
the site, where all but one of the four moulded the nest, entering
the nest one by one (usually after bowing and wing-spreading in front
of it), inserting the material, if any, that it had carried to the
nest, sitting with appressed tail and spread body feathers, wings
flitting, then turning in a full circle, pressing fully, 'tamping
down' the nest and any pieces they had put into it. Over the next
several days we saw three and four birds carry material (fibres,
bits of lichen, moss) to the nest site. One of the four was
attacked twice by another individual, and it was prevented from
getting into the nest. All the birds that came to the nest waited
until all three had taken their turns before they flew off as a
group. The intervals between visits varied from 15 min to 2h. By
30 December the nest was 3 cm high, with construction occurring
irregularly. For the first time we saw spider webs carried to and
incorporated into the nest, which Maclean (1985: 665) describes as
a ‘shallow cup' of plant fibres, felted with spider 'web'. Low
calls were often heard, and two individuals particularly displayed,
bowing to one another with material in their bills, before going one
by one to the nest. Later, 20 m from the nest tree, as the entire
group fed low in bushes and a dead, fallen tree, two helmet shrikes
bowed, spreading their head feathers to one another, then one
courtship-fed the other. Among three birds of a different group
seen on 22 December, one solicited almost continuously, and another
attempted to copulate with it.
In other groups seen in the area we noted spider webs and mosses
being carried. One group of nine individuals was observed for one
hour, and we saw one individual constantly soliciting, crouching,
calling eek notes, and wing-spreading, all in front of another,
which it appeared to follow (the soliciting bird was an adult by
plumage, eye and other soft part colours). For 10 min the soliciting
helmet shrike waved its wings in a circle to each side in the manner
of a displaying, singing male European Starling Sturnus vulgaris.
When last seen on 2 January the nest described above was about 4 cm
high, and four birds continued to carry moss and spider webs to it
in a group at about once per hour. Britton & Britton (1977)
described a nest built of grasses and thin bark, as well as cobwebs,
the dimensions of which (62 mm x 65 mm in diameter, 24 mm high
inside the cup) suggest that the nest we describe was nearly com-
pleted on 2 January. The three nests they mention from Arabuko-
Sokoke Forest all were lower than 9 m and in forks of Brachystegia
QZ Notes on Sokoke birds
spiciformis. They fully described the eggs of this helmet shrike
that Maclean (1985) notes as unknown. Britton & Britton (1977) and
Brown & Britton (1980: 97) indicate breeding from January to July,
with a peak in April. The numerous indications we had of breeding
activity in December-January suggest that the peak in some years
falls before the main rains, in January to March.
We tape-recorded diverse vocalizations and audible bill-snapping of
both species of helmet shrikes, which have a generally similar
repertory. One difference is that scopifrons utters a buzzy trill
resembling the aggressive trill of Lesser Honeyguides Indicator minor
not heard from retzii. This common call is grating, and nasal a
bdddddt, bdddddt, dddddt - uttered repeatedly. Bill snaps often
accompany tsee-zzee-zzeee-eep calls, or end them, as zzee-tsip-ip
(snap), 1n a gun-like burst. There is a whistled, clear fyew-dyew-
dewt song, as well as alarm calls, and complex low notes.
Behaviourally scopifrons is more aggressive, less shy, flycatches
to a greater extent, and more often forages low in bushes, even to
the ground. Several times we saw scopifrons flycatch while hovering
for up to 30 s before tree blossoms. On 26 December, as a group of
scopifrons fed along with a Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus on
caterpillars in a caterpillar-infested tree, one of the helmet
shrikes hovered 25 s beneath a leaf frond from which it pulled out
a 4-cm black and white hairy caterpillar. The dominance of scopifrons
to retzii is shown by playback. When we played either retzii or
scopifrons calls, scopifrons usually approached us; whenever both
were nearby and retzii did respond first, several birds approaching
to bow and display at us, they were supplanted and gave way to
incoming scopifrons; and whenever both species approached initially,
scopifrons stayed and retzii quickly disappeared.
Retz's Helmet Shrike Prionops retzii
Although we have discussed both helmet shrikes above in comparing
them, we did work extensively with P. retzii, either where there
happened to be no P. scopifrons about, or, using playback, after
scopifrons habituated and drifted away. We found that Retz's Helmet
Shrikes actually were more responsive to playback when they could
respond freely in the absence of scopifrons, often uttering
whistled series of notes as they approached us. These notes, a
tweeooh-tweew, are oriole-like in quality and clearer than the
similar call of P. scopifrons. At times four to five retzZii
flew to us, and displayed in response to our playback. This display
is a deep bow with crest very erect, and anterior body feathers
generally fluffed out, the wings held slightly out from the body;
the slow bow is followed by a slow raising of the head nearly to a
vertical position, the bill pointing skyward. The bowing usually
occurred two or three times in succession. Sometimes the incoming
helmet shrikes approached us in display flight, singing (song noted
above, or a blasting tyeeeow, tyeeee-owp), with crest erect and
anterior body feathers fluffed, making a cowl-like effect above
the upper back - with the wings set the bird then has somewhat the
Notes on Sokoke birds 123
appearance of the front end of a Boeing 747. On 2 January one retzii
sang and displayed to us for over 10 min.
Vocalizations other than songs and bill snaps that were tape-recorded
include a version of the song with nasal long notes, a tyew-tyow-
dyeeeew-dyeeeeew, and one with a grating ending tyao-tyow-
tyeeeddddaa; tyeeeddddaa;tyeeeddddaa. Sometimes the song-like
whistles follow somewhat buzzy notes, a tzzeee-tzzeee-tzzeee-tyew
_tyow or a pyee-er-eep, pyee-er-eep, pyee-er-eep-tyewltyow. All of
these are fast, rapid-fire calls or songs. Softer notes also were
obtained as recordings.
Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis
We report a nesting of this common bird in the Bamburi Hotel garden
because the nest (found by the Ian Husband family) was 1 m from the
tip of the branch of a leafless baobab tree, near its top at 12 m or
so up. The nest contained two young when first seen on 16 December,
and was woven of fine fibres and grasses. The parents fed the young
regularly each day, often pausing to attack and drive away Indian
House Crows Corvus splendens that are such a plague along the coast.
The young fledged on 24 December, and were fed thereafter about the
garden at least through 29 December. Brown & Britton (1980: 79)
cite breeding records for the coast in April and May, and November
to January.
Eastern Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata
On 28 December we spied one of these birds flying upward from dense
undergrowth to a high perch in a tree; it then went into a hole at
the tip of a dead stub 18 m above the ground in the sub-canopy of an
unidentified 32-m high tree. We watched them during subsequent
visits and established that a pair were feeding insects to young in
a hole at a rate of 2.5 feedings per hour (10 times, 4 hours, about
every 20-30 minutes). On 28 December, we saw feedings, for example
at 17:17, 17:24 and 17:48 between 17:00 and 18:00. No nest was
visible but the feeding bird entered to the point at which only the
tip of its tail could be seen from below. The route taken to feed
the young varied; at times the parent flew directly upward to a
perch conveniently located at the level of, and 3 m from the hole;
at other times it would ascend in four or five stages over 3-4 min
to the same perch before the hole. About 20 s was spent feeding
the young before the adult left the nest, usually flying directly
into the undergrowth, but at times descending first to one or two
intermediate perches. Frequently the adults carried faecal material
when leaving the nest, which they dropped as they flew downward.
We observed feeding on 29, 30 and 31 December, but by 2 January the
unknown number of young either had fledged or were missing, as the
adults were not seen to approach the cavity. The male sang
periodically nearby, and was singing (voice recorded) on 2 January,
our last day. The high site of the nest is unusual, especially for
a bird of the ground and undergrowth, and more observations on
arboreal nests of this species would be useful.
124 Notes on Sokoke birds
Brown & Britton (1980: 85) noted December and January breeding
records, and stated that this "dry season breeding is especially
unexpected"; yet it rained in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest at least every
other day during our December to early January stay, so 'dry" is
a relative expression for this area.
Black-breasted Glossy Starling Lamprotornis corruscus
This species was observed in flocks of six to 300-400 birds, but
were usually in small flocks in flight over the Brachystegia woods.
In some fruiting trees and berry-bearing bushes 10-20 gathered to
feed. Only once did we see any perched within 60 m of one of the
two Blue-eared Glossy Starling L. chalybeus nests. We wondered if
wood-gathering by man had so opened the woods as to permit L.
chalybeus to enter and partly displace L. corruscus, but it might
be that the latter were not nesting at the time of our visit, and
hence were largely elsewhere. The one very large flock fed making
a terrific din in two large fruiting trees at the west end of the
track, accompanied by drongos, and by both helmet shrikes that
probably were taking insects caused to fly by the movements of the
starlings. On 26 December, three of these starlings from a group
of seven dropped from flight to a tree and there, with feathers
ruffled, they displayed, dipping their bills and giving low calls,
a hyeeh note and a series eh-eh, eh-eh-eh.
Blue-eared Glossy Starling Lamprotornis chalybeus
We found these starlings scattered in pairs in more open parts of
the Brachystegia woods, in areas where Black-breasted Glossy
Starlings occurred only in passing flocks. The Blue-eared's
characteristic nyeee-yeh call was often heard. Two nests were
found. The first was 6 m up a /-m dead tree stub, at the broken
end of one tip, beneath which was an old hole (possibly woodpecker
or barbet) in which the nest was situated. On 15 December we
observed the pair coming to the nest together, sometimes one at
other times both, with food, apparently all insects. Only
occasionally did one bird arrive at the nest alone, and then the
other invariably arrived soon after. When both simultaneously
arrived bearing food, one gave way to the other. They sporadically
carried food to the nest (about twice an hour on the average, but
sometimes every 5-10 min). The food taken to the young was obtained
in small, berry-bearing bushes, on the ground within 50 m of the
nest, and by flycatching from nearby trees. On 28 and 29 December
we saw adults carry berries several times to the nest, but on
30 December the nest was empty. Calls suggest that there were
only two young, and the presence of one or occasionally two birds
to 2 January within 100 m of the nest left us uncertain as to the
fate of the young.
On 30 December, about 100 m east of the first nest, we spied a
second pair, also feeding young, in a dead stub of a Brachystegia
spiciformis. The stub was 2 m long, about 33 cm thick, and at iSem
above ground in a 22-m high tree. Originally the hole, under the
tip of the stub, was probably that of a woodpecker or barbet. The
Notes on Sokoke birds 125
food carried was insects. Young were fed until 2 January, the
adults mainly finding food in the immediate vicinity of the nest.
This pair inspected our honeycomb pieces put out for attracting
honeyguides. When feeding the young both went to the nest, one
remaining outside while the other fed them. We could not determine
the number of young starlings in the nest.
This starling may be spreading as a result of opening of forests
and woodlands, as Britton (1980) gives its range as north only to
Tsavo East and Kilifi. Brown & Britton (1980) give no coastal
breeding records, although indicating breeding elsewhere during
the rains.
Clarke's Weaver
Any observations of this little-known weaver are worthy of note,
especially outside the August-September period when it is most
frequently seen (Britton 1980). At 10:50 on 31 December we were
studying honeyguides in the centre of the Brachystegia area
(with mixed Afzelia cuanensis) along the Nature Reserve south
track, when our attention was attracted by a constant noise
sounding like mobbing calls of small birds. After about 8 min
of this ‘disturbance’ Short broke from the studies to go 80 m
southeast, seeking the cause of the noise. As he approached a
fruiting small tree some 6 m high he noted several Prionops
scopifrons and P. retzii, two East Coast Batis Batis soror, two
Dicrurus adsimilis, about four Common Bulbuls Pycnonotus barbatus
and one Little Yellow Flycatcher fFErythrocercus holochlorus, all but
the bulbuls flycatching about that tree, which contained an
estimated 125 Clarke's Weavers. The noise came from the weavers,
an insistent sss, sss, sss. The weavers fed upon fruits of the tree,
although some 20 more were perched in neighbouring trees. The other
species appeared not to be with the weavers in a mixed species flock,
but rather seemed to be using the noise and movements of the weavers
to obtain insects flushed by the weavers (except the bulbuls that
were merely feeding on the same fruits). As Short drew near, the
weavers began to fly in groups of 5-12, gradually at first, then
they swarmed into two nearby Brachystegia spiciformis trees, in
which two Brown-capped Weavers Ploceus insignis were feeding. The
bursting flight of the Clarke's Weavers was almost quelea-like.
Observations took place from 10:55 to 11:04, at which time the
weavers flew in a dense flock to the south. We combed the area
for the next two days during the two hour period around 11:00, but
did not see them again.
The flock appeared to contain about equal numbers of both sexes (see
Taylor 1984 for sexual differences), although about 25 of the males
appeared subadult, in greenish brown and yellowish plumage with
patchy black head markings and traces of a superciliary stripe.
These observations suggest that care should be taken in reporting
Clarke's Weavers in mixed species foraging flocks (Turner 1977,
Britton et al. 1985), as Kelsey & Langton (1984) saw them only in
flocks of conspecifics. Other birds may take advantage of the
126 Notes on Sokoke. birds
presence of a mass of birds without association in a true flocking
sense. The report of four of these weavers on 31 December (EANHS/
OSC 1984) accords with our observations of larger numbers on the
same date and almost certainly indicates presence of the birds in
the forest during at least early January. Records from the Arabuko-
Sokoke Forest are lacking from 1 January to 2 April (Kelsey &
Langton 1984, Taylor 1984). Taylor suggested the January to March
period as the likely breeding time, and they have been suggested as
breeding elsewhere. We feel that it is likely that some breeding
occurs in the July to September period (Kelsey & Langton 1984), as
well as in January to March, and that the species probably breeds
in or very near the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. We are confident that
records will be forthcoming for presence of the species in the
forest during January to March. Of course all observers
privileged to visit the forest should seek it at all times of
year, for our knowledge of Clarke's Weaver is meagre indeed.
REFERENCES
BRITTON, P.L. & BRITTON, H.A. 1977. The nest and eggs of the
Chestnut-fronted Shrike Prionops scopifrons. Scopus 1:86.
, STUART, S.N. & TURNER, D.A. 1985. East African
endangered species. Proceedings Vth Pan-African Ornithological
Congress: 679-688
& ZIMMERMAN, D.A. 1979. The avifauna of Sokoke Forest,
Kenya. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 169: 1-15.
BROWN, L.H. 1955. Supplementary notes on the biology of the large
birds of prey of Embu District, Kenya Colony. Ibis 97: 38-64.
S22 II"¢
& AMADON, D. 1968. Eagles, hawks and falcons of the
world. 2 vols. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co.
EANHS/OSC 1984. East African Bird Report 1983. Scopus 7: 120.
GOODWIN, D. 1970. Pigeons and doves of the world. 2nd ed. London:
resieseig Wines Otlene 5 lebisieg)).
KELSEY,M.G & LANGTON, T.E.S. 1984. The conservation of the Arabuko-
Sokoke Forest, Kenya. Cambridge, U.K.: Int. Council for Bird
Preserv.
MACLEAN, G.L. 1985. Roberts' birds of southern Africa. Cape Town:
J. Voelcker Bird Book Fund.
TAYLOR, P.B. 1984. Recent Kenya records of Clarke's Weaver Ploceus
golandi and an indication of its breeding season. Scopus 8: 28-29.
TURNER, D.A. 1977. Status and distribution of the East African
endemic species. Seopus) lis e2—-1ie
VERNON, C.J. 1985. The breeding biology of the Thickbilled Cuckoo.
Proceedings Vth Pan-African Ornithological Congress: 825-840.
L.L. Short, American Museum of Natural History, New York, N.Y.10024,
U.S.A. and J.F.M. Horne, National Museums of Kenya, P.O.Box 40658,
Nairobi. (Received 16 August 1985)
White-chested Alethe LQ
THE WHITE-CHESTED ALETHE
ALETHE FUELLEBORNI IN TANZANIA
PeaneomacM io. BrOogger-Jensen, and G. Petersen
Although the White-chested Alethe Alethe fuelleborni is a common
inhabitant of most of the montane forests in eastern Tanzania,
northern Maiawi and north-eastern Zambia, comparatively little is
known about its general biology. In this paper we present some
new information on its distribution, subspecific limits, seasonal
movements, food and feeding in Tanzania. We also give a descrip-
tion of the nest and eggs of this species. These observations were
made during a number of visits to the forests of eastern Tanzania
between 1980 and 1984.
DISTRIBUTION
The White-chested Alethe occurs in the forests of eastern Tanzania
(see Fig. 1) from the South Pare Mountains and the Usambara
Mountains south to Mt Rungwe (Britton 1980, 1981). We observed
this species in the Usambaras, Ulugurus, Uzungwas and on Mt Rungwe.
It also occurs in the forests of northern Malawi at Uzumara,
Nyankhowa, the Nyika Plateau and the Misuku Hills (Benson & Benson
1977) and in adjacent Zambia on the Nyika Plateau (Benson et al.
1977). An isolated subspecies, xuthura, has been reported from
a coastal forest near Sofala (formerly Beira) in southern
Mozambique and from the nearby Gorongosa Mountain (Clancey & Lawson
1969) .
The White-chested Alethe has generally been considered a resident
of montane forests (Hall & Moreau 1970, Benson et al. 1971, Britton
1980) with an altitudinal range in Tanzania from 900 to 2600 m
(Britton 1980), in Zambia between 1800 and 2100 m (Benson
1971) and in Malawi from 1830 to 2200 m (Benson & Benson 1977).
Records of the species at 1380 m in the Misuku Hills in Malawi in
August, however, were thought to indicate some downward, off-
season movement (Benson & Benson 1977). The birds found in coastal
forests in Mozambique in June might have been migrants from
Gorongosa Mountain. In recent years there have also been a number
of low altitude records of White-chested Alethes from Tanzania.
In the East Usambaras it is resident down to 500 m (S.N. Stuart,
pers. comm.). In the Kimboza Forest in the eastern foothills of
the Uluguru Mountains it has been recorded at 250-300 m in June
and July (Stuart & Jensen in press) and in the Mwanihana Forest
on the north-eastern escarpment of the Uzungwa Mountains it is
common down to 400 m in August (pers. obs.). In Magombera Forest,
at 300 m to the east of Mwanihana Forest, it has been recorded in
September (S.N. Stuart, pers. comm.) and in the Chita Forest in
the southern part of the Uzungwa escarpment it was found to be
common and breeding (see below) at 750 m in October and November.
tretceeleas Ehat in Tanzania this species is not restricted. to
montane forests but occurs at intermediate altitudes in certain
Scopus 9: 127-132, December 1985
128 White-chested. Alethe
localities down to 500-750 m throughout the year. The records from
below 500 m, however, are all from the cold season between May and
August and its occurrence at these altitudes is therefore probably
seasonal. This hypothesis is supported by the apparent lack of
White-chested Alethes in the Kimboza Forest when mist-netting was
conducted at this site at the end of November 1984 (pers. obs.).
@ South Pare Q
AY
\\
West Usambara
East Usambara
& Nguru Mts
HR
Ukaguru Mts
: Uluguru Mts @ Pugu Hills @
Mahenge
Fig. 1. The distribution of the White-chested
Alethe in Tanzania. Note that the Uzungwa
Mountains comprise the area from Image, east to
Mwanihana, south to Chita and Mufindi.
SUBSPECIATION
Two subspecies are known from Tanzania. The nominate race was
described from southern Tanzania between the Poroto Mountains and
Tandala by Reichenow (1900). Reichenow (1905) described usambarae
from the West Usambara Mountains. Britton (1980) gives the range
of the nominate race in Tanzania as Mt Rungwe, the Poroto and
Livingstone Mountains. This form also occurs in Malawi and Zambia.
All other populations of the White-chested Alethe in Tanzania are
usually referred to usambarae (Ripley & Heinrich 1969, Britton
1980).
Reichenow (1905) in his description of usambarae, stated that it
is separable from the nominate form by its more olivaceous, less
White-chested Alethe 129
brown mantle. Clancey & Lawson (1969) and Ripley & Heinrich (1969)
also noted the nominate race has greyish apical margins to the
chest and breast feathers, giving a scaly appearance, in contrast
to the almost pure white underside of usambarae. Clancey & Lawson
(1969) give wing lengths of 102-108 mm for the nominate race and
112-120 mm for usambarae.
Our examination of a large number of museum specimens and living
birds from many localities in both Tanzania and northern Malawi
has revealed a more complex situation than that previously des-
cribed. With regard to the colour of the mantle and back, we
found that in birds from the Njombe-Mt Rungwe area and northern
Malawi (i.e. the nominate race) brown seems to predominate while
most birds from the Uzungwas, Ulugurus and Usambaras tend to be
more olivaceous. However, in several populations, especially
usambarae, we found a large amount of individual variation in
mantle and back colour. This is, therefore, an unreliable
character for separating the two subspecies.
We have attempted to verify that the two subspecies can be
Separated on the wing length. We obtained figures of 110-115
mm (n = 17) for the nominate race (contra 102-108 mm given by
Clancey & Lawson (1969)) and 102-120 mm (n = 129) for usambarae
(contra 112-120 mm given by Clancey & Lawson (1969)). There is,
therefore, a large overlap in the wing length of the two sub-
species. We also found that the wings of the males average 2.0 mm
longer than those of the females (n = 33 males and 22 females).
In Table 1 we have given the mean wing length and weight of
alethes belonging to the nominate race (birds from Njombe, Rungwe
and northern Malawi) and of birds from a number of other localities
in eastern Tanzania.
Table 1. Wing lengths and weights of White-chested Alethes
Localities Mean wing length (mm) Weight (g)
Usambara Mts 110.0 (n=22) (13m & 9£) 54.8 (n=13)
Uluguru Mts 110.9 (n=14)(5m & 5f£, 4 unsexed) 53.6 (n= 4)
Mwanihana 110.8 (n=26) (all unsexed) 52.3 (n=24)
Dabaga 108.1 (n= 7)(6m & 1£f) ESRB (n= oP)
Chita Forest 108.9 (n=49) (all unsexed) 50.8 (n=54)
Kigogo Forest 108.0 (n=10)(all unsexed) 49.0 (n=10)
Nominate birds 106.9 (n=16) (9m & 7£) 45.3 (n=12)
m = male(s), f = female(s)
a I IIE EES SRE IE TT IIE III OI I OIE EI EES a EE
It can be seen from the table that instead of a sudden change in
size, the variation is clinal and the birds tend to have longer
wings and heigher weights towards the north of the range. We
detected no weight difference between males and females.
130 White-chested Alethe
The grey margins to the chest and breast feathers in nominate birds,
contra the almost pure white underside of usambarae seems to be the
only valid character to segregate the two subspecies. In a com-
parison of 38 museum specimens from Njombe, Rungwe, the Uzungwas,
the Ulugurus and the Usambaras, we were able to identify the
nominate birds by their scaly breasts. However, we noted some
weak scaling on a few specimens from the Usambaras and Dabaga.
It 1s, therefore, with some hesitation that we uphold the two
subspecies of the White-chested Alethe in Tanzania.
BREEDING
There is only one previous breeding record from Tanzania, that of
a nest in montane forest in the West Usambara Mountains on 11-12
December 1976 (Carter 1978). This nest was situated 4-5 m from
the ground in a tree, but because it could not be examined closely,
no detailed description of the nest was given and the eggs
remained undescribed.
On 23 October 1984 we found an active nest of a White-chested Alethe
in the Chita Forest in the Uzungwa Mountains. The nest site was at
750 m inside primary forest on a gentle slope about 50 m from a
small stream. The forest was fairly low with the canopy at about
20 m. The understorey was open and dominated by young trees 2-4 m
in height, and ground plants were almost entirely absent.
The nest was positioned on top of a stump, !|!.8 m above the ground.
It was made of green moss and lined with fine rootlets. The cup
measured 8 cm in diameter and was 5 cm deep. The nest contained
two pale green eggs with brown to dark green spots. They
measuned 25 95) < eN3.2 mm yand, 2659 gael 3 mm.
In addition to these two records of nesting, birds in breeding
condition have been collected in eastern Tanzania between October
and March (Ripley & Heinrich 1969), in northern Malawi in late
October (Benson & Benson 1977) and in Zambia in November (Benson
et al. 1971). This suggests that the White-chested Alethe
follows the general trend among insectivorous forest passerines
by breeding during the rains.
FOOD AND FEEDING
The White-chested Alethe is usually a solitary feeder which
appears to seek most, if not all of its food om the ground), ) the
food has been given as beetles, ants and berries (Benson 1937,
Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1960). Our examination of 12 stomach
samples confirmed that insects, in particular beetles, constitute
a large proportion of the diet. The birds also take millipedes,
snails, worms and small amphibians. Ants were found in two of -
the samples. In one of the samples there were a few ants and some
ant larvae while the other was packed with driver ants Dorylus sp.
Like many ground-feeding forest birds, the White-chested Alethe
is often seen near driver-ant swarms. It has, however, been the
impression that the birds feed on the insects which try to escape
White-chested Alethe
from the ants, rather than on the ants themselves (Oatley 1970,
Willis & Oniki 1978, Willis 1981). In eastern Tanzania only the
Red-tailed Ant Thrush Neocossyphus rufus is known to feed speci-
fically on driver ants (Sclater & Moreau 1933, pers. obs.), but it
appears that at least occasionally the White-chested Alethe does
the same (only a very few fragments of other insects were present
in this sample).
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would like to thank the Tanzania National Scientific Research
Council for giving us permission to work in Tanzania. We are
grateful to N. Scharff and M. Stoltze for their assistance in the
field. We wish to thank I.C.J. Galbraith for permitting FPJ to
examine specimens in the British Museum (Natural History) and Prof.
C.G. Sibley for a loan of specimens from the Peabody Museum of
Natural History. Special thanks are due to Dr S.N. Stuart for
his help in the field, comments on a draft of this paper and for
improving its English.
REFERENCES
BENSON, C.W. 1937. Miscellaneous notes on Nyasaland birds.
Does) ls 551-582.
& BENSON, F.M. 1977. The birds of Malawi. Limbe:
Montford Press.
BRITTON, P.L. 1981. Notes on the Andersen collection and other
Specimens from Tanzania housed in some West German museums.
seopus 3s: !4=21.
CARTER, C. 1978. First recorded nest site of Alethe fuelleborni
seopus 2: ‘25.
CLANCEY, P.A. & LAWSON, W.J. 1969. A new race of White-breasted
Alethe from Mozambique. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists'
Gib, 69: 4—-6..
OATLEY, T.B. 1970. Observations on the food and feeding habits
of some African robins (Aves: Turdinae). Annals of the Natal
Museum 20: 293-327.
REICHENOW, A. 1900. Alethe fulleborni Rchw. n. sp. Orn. Monatsber
8: 99.
1905. Alethe fulleborni usambarae Rchw. Orn.
Monatsber. 13: 182.
RIPLEY, S.D. & HEINRICH, G.H. 1969. Comments on the avifauna of
Panadniad, €1. Postilla 134: 1-21.
SCLATER, W.L. & MOREAU, R.E. 1933. Taxonomic and field notes on
some birds of north-eastern Tanganyika Territory, Part III.
wes (13) 3: 1-33.
12 White-chested Alethe
STUART, S.M. & JENSEN, F.P. (in press) The avifauna of the
Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania. Gerfaut.
WILLIS, E.O. 1981. A preliminary survey of African ant-following
birds. Coral Gables, U.S.A. cyclostyled.
& ONIKI, Y. 1978. Birds and army ants. Ann. Rev.
ECOL. (SUSE. 92 243—205
F.P. Jensen, S. Brogger-Jensen and G. Petersen, Zoologisk Museum,
Universitetsparken 15, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
(Received 6 September 1985)
New Uganda birds 1988
BIRDS, INCLUDING A HYBRID, NEW TO UGANDA
af BiSiR, aswel
Four species of birds and one hybrid, previously unrecorded in
Uganda, were found whilst I was in the country from 9 February 1983
to 8 January 1984. Three of the species and the hybrid are dis-
cussed here: the fourth species is being discussed elsewhere.
Numerals and upper case letters in brackets are the $ x 3 degree
Square references (Turner 1981).
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
a. Lutembe (0:08N, 32:39E), 25 April 1983, one adult in breeding
plumage (46D).
b. Entebbe (0:04N, 32:28E), 2 June 1983, one in Ist summer plumage
(46C).
a) The first bird flew past close inshore at Lutembe, Lake
Victoria during a very large movement (10000 birds) of White-
winged Black Terns Chlidonias leucopterus. Compared with the
latter, it was judged to be half as large again, with a longer
dark bill, long forked tail and white underparts showing a darker
shade (off-white or pale grey) on breast. The smoky-grey border
to the under-surface of the primaries was seen well and is a good
character for distinguishing the species from Arctic Tern S.
paradisaea which has a clearly delineated blacker frame to the tip.
Except that it was dark, bill colour was not seen; the amount of
red showing is variable in spring and it develops gradually. The
breast was paler than in spring adults on the coast of Somalia;
these birds are probably S.h. tibetana, and the Lutembe bird
possibly nominate hirundo.
b) The second bird at Entebbe flew about for several minutes
over the water close off a headland in Lake Victoria. It was in
typical lst summer plumage, with the black crown not fully
developed, but clearly showing the underwing pattern of the above
bird and a well-forked tail.
The species is common off the East African coast, but has only
twice previously been recorded inland in Kenya (Britton 1980), in
September and October.
Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur
a. Entebbe (0:04N, 32:28E), 9 October 1983, one immature (46C).
b ” " 10 October 1983, one immature
og M # 15 October 1983, three immatures
d a " 16 October-5 November 1983, 1-2 on 6 days
e- a i 6 November 1983, five immatures
f. Kibimba (0:32N, 33:53E) 8 November 1983, one immature (47B).
This irruption into southern Uganda is without precedent in East
Africa. The exact number of birds at Entebbe is not known, but at
least seven were involved. The first (a) was quite distinct,
being fearless and having pale sandy brown upperparts with clear
Scopus 9: 133-137, December 1985
134 New Uganda birds
dark mottling or spotting over the chestnut area of the wing, and
it was not seen again.
The following day another bird (b) was found about 1 km away, whilst
searching for the previous day's bird with Dr M. Carswell. This was
a very 'wild' and much greyer bird, with some derangement of the
head feathers suggestive of an injury; it too was not seen again.
After my absence for four days, there were three birds (c) on 15
October, similar in plumage to (b), and one or two probably from
this same group seen often until 5 November. Then on 6 November
with Dr M. Carswell and A.B. Sheldon there were five birds, all
generally alike, and apparently including two new arrivals (e).
There were no observations at Entebbe from 7 to 22 November, but
no Turtle Doves were seen on 23 November, nor thereafter. However,
an immature was found on 8 November at Kibimba, some 166 km east
of Entebbe.
Except for the second bird at Entebbe, which was very unapproachable,
all the others were fearless and often permitted approach to within
10 m as they fed on the ground. Mostly they fed in cultivated
patches, especially among cassava plants which were thick with
weeds, but often flew into large trees to rest and preen. They
became particularly associated with one area around a group of
inhabited huts where they often joined a group of free-ranging
poultry. The Kibimba bird, however, fed on open tracks in an
irrigated rice scheme and was far away from any cover.
Generally they did not consort with other species of birds. The
Red-eyed Dove S. semitorquata is the only other dove at Entebbe,
and although the Turtle Doves often fed close to them, only the
second one (b) tenaciously held company with one. The Kibimba
bird similarly was associated closely with a Ring-necked Dove S.
capicola.
These Ugandan localities are far to the south of most earlier
records, but it is of interest that at the same time one was found
even further south on 22 (23) October at Amboseli (2:30S, 37:00E)
Kenya by Dr D.J. Pearson (in 1itt., 26.10.83)... Taken togerner
these observations suggest that there may have been an unusual
widespread small-scale irruption of the species into eastern Africa
in 1983. It is unquestionably rare in East Africa from where there
are only two previous known occurrences at Barsaloi (1:20N, 36:52E),
N. Kenya, 16-19 October 1976 (Britton 1980); Samburu Lodge (0:40N,
37:30E), Central Kenya, 3 January 1981 (Haas et al...1981). There
are also two records from South West Africa (Namibia) (Winterbottom
1974) and one from Aldabra in the Indian Ocean (Frith 1974). To
the north in Ethiopia I found them each autumn in small numbers,
but sometimes 40-50 together, between 25 September and 9 November
(once 11 September), and in spring between 8 March and 27 April,
in 1970-1976. Between these periods there were only two obser-
vations, each in December (17-20th), suggesting that there is a
passage to and from areas further to the south. Further east in
Somalia there are three records in the north in spring and another
from Gezira (1:57N, 45:11E) in the southeast, of a bird, ony ene
New Uganda birds 135
coast on 24 November 1978 (Ash in prep.).
There was individual variation in the colour of the upperparts of
the birds in Uganda, but most were greyish, especially over the
head and extending on to the breast. All wing feather tips and
edges were margined with buff to reddish buff, including all
primaries, producing a distinct mottled or scaly appearance. In
flight and on the ground the combined effect of these pale edges
produced a band of reddish brown on the wing. All birds had the
belly white. Their tails were the same colour as the upperparts,
darkening terminally and broadly tipped with pure white (although
the two central tail feathers on some were tipped pale grey). Bill
dark, legs red, eye mustard to red-brown. There were no neck
markings until 15 October when one bird was beginning to develop
the dark bands. The first (a), however, lacked this greyness and
was pale sandy brown (isabelline) above, with a paler forehead, and
paler buffish breast; the brown patch on the wing was richer in
colour (chestnut) and had more distinct darker centres to the
feathers, producing a mottled or spotted effect.
The first bird (a) was possibly referrable to one of the North
African races hoggara or isabellina and the others, because of
their pale grey heads and general pale colour, were most probably
arenicola or perhaps from an intergraded population with turtur.
It is probably not possible to identify immature birds to sub-
species with certainty. Further observations will probably show
that Turtle Doves are more frequent, if not regular, visitors to
East Africa.
Dusky Nightjar Caprimulgus fraenatus
freee rs saN 4 34°39E).. 18 June 1983, 1 at 52 km S.W. (24C)
Nr. Moroto ( y )5° 20% June; 1983),0 5,.at).24-45; km N.Ws| (24A).
All of these were found dead on dirt roads. In the early morning
of 20 June 1983, 12 dead nightjars were collected on the road between
24 and 45 km by road north-west of Moroto. They included one
Pennant-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx vexillarius, one Plain
Nightjar Caprimulgus inornatus, three Slender-tailed Nightjars
C. clarus and five Dusky Nightjars C. fraenatus. Three of the
last species had undamaged wings of length (male) 161; female 156,
164 mm. Also, although there are records close to the border in
Kenya, it has not previously been found in Uganda (Britton 1980).
Dr D.J. Pearson kindly checked a wing and some tail feathers against
specimens of C. fraenatus at the National Museum in Nairobi and
found agreement. I have several other similar specimens, which
have also been confirmed as fraenatus at the British Museum
(Natural History), Tring, where one is deposited (Registration No.
1965.1.5).
Eurasian Swallow Hirundo rustica x House Martin Delichon urbica
hybrid.
Entebbe (0:04N, 32:38E), 1 October 1983, one.
In a flock of over 100 Eurasian Swallows hawking for food in the
136 New Uganda birds
lee of two large trees on | October 1983 at Entebbe, there was one
bird noticeably different in its manner of flight. Through
binoculars it was taken at first to be a House Martin because of
its white rump - a seldom reported species in the area (Carswell,
in press) - but its head was like that of a swallow's, and its tail
was intermediate between the two species; in fact it possessed the
mixed field characteristics of both species.
It immediately recalled similar birds I had seen in Indonesia, and
whose identification I was unable to determine. (These birds were
on Bali at two localities on the same day 27 August 1981: two at
Anturan and one at Banyu Wedang. They were noted as having dark
throats and forked tails as in rustica, but with white rumps as in
Delichon). Thus I was specially interested in obtaining further
information on this bird, particularly as there is no known species
of Hirundo with a white rump. Vansteenwegen (1980) recorded a
similar hybrid male paired with a female Swallow in Belgium, and
mentions 30 other instances. Since then there have been several
other records including Prendergast & Boys (1983) in U.K., and
Grech (1984) in Malta and Denmark.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My best thanks are due to: Mrs J.W. Ash, Dr M. Carswell and A.B.
Sheldon, who shared some of the above observations, Dr D.J.
Pearson for confirming the identification of Caprimulgus
fraenatus in Nairobi and for comments, and P.R. Colston for help
in tracing a reference.
REFERENCES
ASH, J.S. & MISKELL, J.E. in prep. Observations on birds in
Somalia in 1978-1982, together with a bibliography of recent
literature.
CARSWELL, M. (in press). The birds of the Kampala area. Scopus
Special Supplement 2.
FRITH, C.B. 1974. New observations of migrants and vagrants for
Aldabra, Farquhar and Astove Atolls, Indian Ocean. Bulletin
of the British Orn Ghologists Club I4si 29.
GRECH, J. 1984. Occurrence of a hybrid Swallow x House Martin.
T1-Merill 22: 16.
HAAS, V., HAUSSLER, U. & STICK, R. 1981. Turtle Dove Streptopelia
turtéur in pKenya. «Scopus 5s. 128.
HORNE, J.F.M. & SHORT, L.L. 1977. First record of the Turtle Dove
Streptopelia turtur in Kenya. Scopus 1: 50.
PRENDERGAST, E.D.V. & BOYS, J.V. 1983. The birds of(Dorsees
London: David & Charles.
TURNER, D.A. 1981. The East African Mapping Scheme - a Progress
Report. Scopus 5: 38-40.
New Uganda birds, Short communications i 37
VANSTEENWEGEN, C. 1981. Nidification d'un hybride présumé entre
1'Hirondelle de fenétre Delichon urbica et 1'Hirondelle de
cheminée Hirundo rustica. Le Gerfaut 71: 611-615.
WINTERBOTTOM, J.M. 1974. Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur in
South West Africa. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists'
Club 94: 19.
J.S. Ash, Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History,
Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C., U.S.A.
(Received 4 June 1985)
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
NOTES ON SOME BIRDS OF OL ARI NYIRO, LAIKIPIA PLATEAU
During the period 28 April to 11 May 1985, while conducting research
on honeyguides Indicatoridae on O01 Ari Nyiro (Laikipia) Ranch in
Central Kenya we observed, and in some cases recorded voices of,
birds that are noteworthy in terms of avian distributions or
particular behaviour patterns we have not seen reported before.
Most of the species mentioned below were observed, and some ringed
in the upper Mukutan Gorge, the Mukutan being a stream draining
westwards from the Laikipia Plateau through a narrow gorge, then
opening out towards Lake Baringo. The study site in the Mukutan
is at 0:36N, 36:22E at an elevation of 1740 m. The habitat consists
of narrow riparian woodland mainly of fever trees Acacia xantho-
phloea and rocky surrounding hills bearing mixed leleshwa
Tarchonanthus camphoratus, acacias, and Combretum spp. During
April and May the ranch was experiencing its heaviest ‘long’ rains
in a decade.
Four-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles quadricinctus
A pair stood closely in front of our vehicle, and then at its side
for 10 min, within 7 m of us on 4 May. This was at 18:30 in
leleshwa-acacia bushland on a rocky slope. This is considerably
east of prior reports, the nearest of which (Britton 1980) is at
"the Kerio Valley".
Cuckoos
During early May seven species were singing, five of which were
reasonably common. In order of abundance based on vocal activity
(which of course may underestimate numbers of those species just
beginning to sing) these were the Red-chested Cuculus solitarius,
Black C. clamosus, Didric Chrysococcyx caprius, Black and White
Clamator jacobinus, Klaas' Chrysococcyx klaas, Levaillant's Clamator
leivaillanti, and Emerald Chrysococcyx cupreus. All species ranged
through diverse habitats we encountered, except that the only
singing Emerald Cuckoo was in the riverine woods.
138 Short communications
Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Bycanistes brevis
One brayed in the gorge near our site on 10 May; the bird, atop a
fever tree, bowing deeply and cocking its tail, faced to the south-
west whence came answering cries at half a kilometre in that
direction. This appears to be the most northerly occurrence of
this large hornbill, known from the higher areas around Nyaharuru
regularly north to Ngelesha, where some highland forest remains
(C. Francombe pers. comm.).
Hemprich's Hornbill Tockus hemprichii-
This species of the Baringo area has been reported to us previously
from the Mukutan by Colin Francombe, but we had never seen them
there until 10 May, when we followed a foraging pair (that must have
wandered east up the Mukutan) to about 13 km south of our site, at
1770 m, where they disappeared from view in fever trees to the
south. This represents a high altitudinal occurrence as well as an
eastern extension of its range. The gorge's rocky walls would seem
ideal for this species, but it most likely normally occupies the
lower gorges to the west. They must thus wander in search of fruits
when not breeding. Britton (1980) notes a record from Nakuru at
1800 m, but states its altitudinal range as 950-1300 m. It is apt
to occur regularly along the rocky west Laikipia scarp up to 1500 m
or even, as in this instance, higher.
Pallid Honeyguide Indicator meliphilus
It occurred regularly at our honeyguide study site in the Mukutan,
in numbers smaller than the Scaly-throated I. variegatus, Black-
throated I. indicator and Lesser I.minor that regularly feed on
our honeycomb feeders. One colour-ringed on 11 May weighed 14.4 g
and had a wing length of 74 m.
Wahlberg's Honeybird (Brown-backed Honeybird) Prodotiscus regulus
Playback of its song, a short monotonous trill reminiscent of the
more strident, longer song of the Scaly-throated Honeyguide,
elicited a few songs by one bird and repeated approach and searching
behaviour by a second bird on 11 May. The song for playback was
from Len Gillard's cassettes Southern African bird calls. The bird
attracted closely to us did not call, but held its crown feathers
erect, and occasionally flashed its white flank marks in flight to
us. The English name of this bird in brackets is that used by us
in the forthcoming Birds of Africa Volume III; its brown back
distinguishes it very well from the Eastern Green-backed Honeybird
(the Eastern Honeybird of Britton 1980) P. zambesiae, and these
names, used in Zambia and elsewhere, are far more appropriate and
helpful for identification than are those of Birds of East Africa;
these names followed those used by Forbes-Watson (1977) although
it is worth noting that Forbes-Watson was dissatisfied with some of
them himself.
Like other Prodotiscus, this species does not feed at bee-hives, but
obtains wax from the scale-insects it eats. We never saw it at our
makeshift hive, although it once sang from a fever tree overhead.
Short communications 139
Black Rough-wing (Black Sawwing Swallow) Psalidoprocne pristoptera
Although reported by Brown & Britton (1980) as usually not nesting
in stream banks, we regularly saw two birds of a party (frequently
numbering five or six) enter and leave a hole excavated 3 m up a
steep bank in a bend of the Mukutan stream from 1-11 May. The marks
of their feet on the base of the entrance hole were clearly visible.
Two flood situations during our stay brought the water level up to
within a metre below the nest, but they continued using it. We did
not attempt to ascertain its contents. The birds were highly vocal
and we obtained numerous recordings of their weak calls. We prefer
the appropriate name 'sawwing' used further south in Africa, for
these birds because 'rough-wing' (Britton 1980) is a long-used name
for a genus (Stelgidopteryx) of American swallows.
Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster
These starlings were numerous in pairs and small groups of up to
eight, and obviously were nesting between 28 April-11 May. Our
assistant, Dikson Chepus, told us of the habit. of these starlings
of incorporating elephant dung into their nests. Once apprised of
this, we began to look at pairs, and on 10 and 11 May we observed
three separate incidents of Violet-backed Starlings, in each case
a male, plucking, balling and carrying off 1.5-2.0-cm balls of
elephant dung. In one case the dung was fresh, and in the other
cases it was old, but rains had rendered them equivalent to fresh
dung for the birds' purposes. We could not take time to seek the
nests, but watched two males fly toward distant dead trees. One
male gathered the dung along a track in front of us, as its
presumed mate fed on the track. When the male flew with the dung,
the female probed for insects a few more times, then flew after
the male. On 11 May a pair flew above us in the Mukutan, the
male bearing a wad of elephant dung in his bill. The male,
carrying the dung and followed by the female, attempted to enter a
cavity in a fever tree over our hide; this hole had been investi-
gated for several days by a singing male Yellow-spotted Petronia
Petronia pyrgita. The petronia appeared and vigorously chased the
starlings to a fever tree 50 m to the north, calling constantly.
For over 10 min the petronia chased them, especially the male
starling, about that tree, and it once intercepted the male
starling, and drove it off when it again flew toward the cavity-
bearing tree. During all this time the male starling held the dung
in its bill, and as far as we could see it still held the dung when
the two starlings finally flew away to the east.
Stripe-breasted Seed-eater Serinus reichardi
This little-known seed-eater extends its range in drier areas across
the Laikipia Plateau east to Don Dol (fide D. Turner), but we had
not seen it in previous visits to Ol Ari Nyiro. From 3-11 May a
Singing male accompanied by a female was about our site in the
Mukutan. The male employed the tops of certain acacias, including
fever trees, as singing perches. These song perches covered an
area of some 400 m x 200 m. We recorded the very varied song,
which employs much mimicry; we noted mimicry involving such calls
140 Short communications
and songs as those of white-eyes Zosterops spp., Cardinal Woodpecker
Dendropicos fuscescens, White-browed Robin Chat Cossypha heuglini,
Collared Sunbird Anthreptes collaris, Black Cuckoo Shrike Campephaga
flava and others. They were likely breeding.
Somali Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza poliopleura
We flushed three buntings from along a track in degraded Acacia
gerrardii woodland at 1830 m on 3 May. One disappeared before we
could observe it, but the other two, a male and female of this
species, perched alongside our vehicle. We clearly saw the white-
patterned wings and patterned greyish streaky back with the grey
rump of this bunting. We can only assume that these birds wandered
upland to the south and west of their normal, lower, dryer range
(Britton 1980 gives 1200 m as the altitudinal maximum). This may
be a reflection of generally more arid conditions in the Laikipia
region, although the May rains were unusually heavy (only some
255 mm of rain, a 30-year low, fell on the main portion of the
ranch anual lof 91984):
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We thank Mrs P. Gallman for permission to conduct our research on
Ol Ari Nyiro Ranch, and for aid in setting up our camp. Mr and Mrs
Colin Francombe also assisted greatly, as did Dikson Chepus and
John Loriu, and many workers on the ranch too numerous to mention
individually. R. Leakey and the staff of the National Museums of
Kenya, particularly Cecilia Muringo, also gave help.. We are
grateful to all of these, to the Office of the President of Kenya
for our research authorisations, and to the Ministry of Environment
and Natural Resources for appropriate permits.
REFERENCE
FORBES-WATSON, A.D. 1977. Notes on the field identification of
East African honeyguides (Indicatoridae). Scopus 1: 1/-20.
Lester L. Short, American Museum of Natural History, New York,
N.Y. 10024, U.S.A. and Jennifer F.M. Horne, National Museums of
Kenya, P.O. Box 40658, Nairobi.
Scopus 9: 137-140, December 1985. Received 31 July 1985
DESERT WHEATEAR OENANTHE DESERTI IN KENYA
On 17 February 1984 I had to fly to Kiunga (1:45S, 41:29E), north
Kenya coast some 10 km SW of the Somali border, in the course of my
job. The suddenness of my departure prevented me from taking bino-
culars. My time on the ground was restricted to the airstrip and
adjacent hospital. The habitat was open, as befits an airstrip,
with low sparse bush mostly under a metre high. Several Pied and
Isabelline Wheatears (Oenanthe pleschanka and O. isabellina) were
present and they, together with the Northern Wheatear O. oenanthe
are white-rumped wheatears with which I am very familiar.
Short communications 141
I was walking slowly about between the clumps of bush when my
attention was drawn by two wheatears chasing one another. As
one perched on a twig about a metre from the ground the other
flew away from me showing a white rump and a broad black terminal
band to the tail (not an inverted T). The other bird remained
perched for probably 20 s until I got to within 10m of it. I
was able to-see its black throat and sides of head up to the
level of the eye, and the black tail; the underparts and mantle
were more brown than in O. isabellina, wings much darker blackish
with light edges to the primary coverts (Isabelline Wheatears seen
minutes before and after the Desert Wheatears). It flew away but
I could not follow because there was a group of fenced Somali
huts in the way.
When the birds were first glimpsed chasing each other, and then
when the better observed bird left its perch, they called. I
am unable to describe the calls except that they were multi-
syllabic and unlike any wheatear I know, that is, nothing like a
chack sound. The birds were robust, larger than Pied Wheatear
and probably about the same size as Isabelline. The observations
were made about noon in full sun.
My initial determination of the birds as Desert Wheatears was
upheld by the East African Rare Birds Committee. In Somalia
the species had not been recorded for the ex-Italian part of
the country (all except the northwest) until Ash (1981) obtained
several records around Mogadishu between December 1979 and
January 1981. His birds were all males and he noted that they
extended the range of the species some 1000 km south. Further
observations around Kiunga in the Palaearctic winter would be of
interest as the area has not been much explored for birds apart
from the shore (Fogden 1963). It is interesting that Fogden, who
was at Kiunga from 20 July to 19 September and at the Boni Forest
some 30 km inland until 6 October, remarked especially that he
only saw two species of Palaearctic passerines during his stay
(Eurasian Swallow Hirundo rustica five on 18 September and Grey
Wagtail Motacilla cinerea one at Boni on 6 October).
REFERENCES
ASH, J.-S. 1981. Desert Wheatears Oenanthe deserti in Ethiopia and
Somalia. Scopus 5: 35-36.
FOGDEN, M.P.L. 1963. Early autumn migrants in coastal Kenya.
ters 1057 112-113.
G.C. Backhurst, P.O. Box 24702, Nairobi Received 2 December 1985
Scopus 9: 140-141, December 1985.
142 Letter
LETTER
On the claimed occurrence of the Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albo-
fasciata in Kenya
Moore (1979) gave, in some considerable detail, a textbook descrip-
tion of Chersomanes albofasciata from Amboseli in southern Kenya
yet, oddly enough, failed to comment on a number of field charac-
teristics that would surely have been apparent to anyone
observing this species for the time claimed (at least 5 min).
Chersomanes albofasciata is an extremely localized species in East
Africa, occurring in only two small areas of eroded calcareous
soils to the north of Arusha, Tanzania, at an altitude of between
1460 and 1550 m, while Moore's sighting in Amboseli was on almost
bare alkaline soil with only very sparse grass cover, at an
altitude of only 1060 m and some 80 km to the north of its
normally very restricted preferred habitat.
In general, Spike-heeled Larks, which are common in many parts
of South Africa and Namibia, vary considerably in plumage
according to the local ground cover and soil colouration.
However, all of them are readily identified at all times by a
number of rather minor yet very noticeable field characteristics,
none of which was reported by Moor (1979), i.e:
no mention of the bill; this, although long, is noticeably
decurved when seen at close range.
no mention of its very upright and erect stance, which is
very apparent to any observer at all times.
No mention of a trilling flight call and fanned tail
clearly showing white tail tips; both these characters
are very noticeable (and Moore's bird is reported to have
flown away from him during observation).
In view of these omissions I suggest that the Spike-heeled Lark
be removed from the Kenya list. I suggest too that Moore's
description be submitted to the East African Rare Birds Committee
which of course was not in being at the time of his submission.
REFERENCE
MOORE, R.D. 1979. Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albofasciata at
Amboseli: a new bird for Kenya. Scopus 3: 103. .
D.A. Turner, P.O. Box 48109, Nairobi Received 10 December 1985
Scopus 9: 142, December 1985
Obituary, Notices 143
OBITUARY
JEAN DELACOUR
We were sad to learn of the death in a Los Argeles, California
hospital on 5 November 1985 of Dr Jean Delacour, leading
authority on waterfowl and pheasant-like birds and, at 95,
the oldest world ornithologist. Dr Delacour was past-president
of the International Ornithological Congress, and of the
International Council for Bird Preservation. He was a leading
figure in the conservation of birds for over half a century.
His field work was mainly in Asia, but he visited all continents.
A leading aviculturist, he maintained extensive aviaries at his
home in northeastern France; these were destroyed during both
World Wars but he rebuilt them each time. He was long a
Research Associate of the American Museum of Natural History
where he wrote many works, sometimes with Ernst Mayr; he
also directed the Los Angeles County Museum for over a decade.
We mourn the passing of this fine old man.
Lester L. Short
NOTICES
EVENTH PAN-AFRICAN ORNITHOLOGICAL CONGRESS
The seventh congress will be held in Nairobi, Kenya from 28 August
to 5 September 1988. There will be symposia, contributed papers,
poster sessions, workshops, and excursions including several tied
in with symposia on avifaunas of threatened forests of Kenya.
One theme will be threatened Afrotropical forest avifaunas. The
I.C.B.P. will participate in a one full day's programme. Funding
and suggestions for funding travel to the meeting, and partici-
pation of indigenous African ornithologists in it are solicited.
For further information contact Don Turner, P.O. Box 48019, Nairobi,
Kenya or Lester L. Short, American Museum of Natural History, New
York, N.Y. 10024-5192 . Avian physiologist Professor Geoffrey
Maloiy of the University of Nairobi is the Congress Chairman. For
those wishing to contribute papers or propose symposia, the
Scientific Programme Chairman is Dr David Pearson, Department of
Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197, Nairobi.
144 Correction, Notices
CORRECTION
N.R. Fuggles-Couchman has pointed out an error in his paper, 'The
distribution of, and other notes on, some birds of Tanzania’
(Scopus 8: 3). The date '2 November 1952' should read '25 February
1952' in the first paragraph of the account of Sarkidiornis melanotos.
We are sorry that we have had to increase the rates for
i] subscribers in East Africa to K.Shs. 100 (K.Shs. 107/50
for cheques other than those drawn on a Nairobi bank).
Happily all other rates remain the same and are given
inside the front cover of this issue.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT 1985
Please send all records for inclusion in the report (which covers
Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda) to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of
Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197, Nairobi, Kenya
by the end of March. It would be a great help if observers could
separate their records into (a) Afrotropical and oceanic species,
and (b) Palaearctic migrants.
REMINDER FOR CONTRIBUTORS
Although notes for contributors are given inside the cover of Scopus,
in common with notices all over the world, they are often not read,
or at least not followed. One of Scopus’ quirks is to ask for
journal names to be given in full when cited in the list of refe-
rences. The reason for this is that, although there are various
comprehensive lists of periodicals published giving '‘approved"
abbreviations, these lists, besides being extremely expensive also
differ one from another in their choice of abbreviations. It is
considered easier, both for the author and the readers, to give the
names of journals in full. When books are cited the town of publi-
cation and the name of the publisher should be given.
Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the form
used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case of books, the
town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of works, which are cited
frequently, should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s) of the author(s) and date(s)
of publication should be given in the text in the normal way.
All contributions, which will be acknowledged, should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi.
WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al, 1971.
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution, Nairobi:
_ EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds, Nairobi:
EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa, Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al, 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation inAfrican Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa, 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands, London: Academic Press,
= Moreau 1966.
1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems, London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds, London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
This forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar year. Records of
Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in early in the new year to
ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
through to any OS-C member (numbers inside front cover) in the hope that the bird(s)
may be seen by others.
Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
June 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
BIRDS OF EAST AFRICA
Copies of this 270-page book are available from the Secretary, EANHS, Box 44486, Nairobi,
for Stg€8.00 or US$17.00 surface mail to anywhere in the world.
IC11 AMREF
CONTENTS
L.L. SHORT and J.F.M. HORNE. Notes on some birds of the
INGE UIROSSOKOKE IHOIPESE 6 56 6 6 56 6 6 6 6 6 6 0 6
F.P. JENSEN, S. BROGGER-JENSEN and G. PETERSEN. The White-
chested Alethe Alethe fuelleborni in Tanzania . .
J.S. ASH. Birds, including a hybrid, new to Uganda » = = Sara
Short communications
Letter
Obituary
Notices .
Correction
L.L. SHORT and J.F.M. HORNE. Notes on some birds
Of Ol Ari Nyi4o, Laikapialy Pilla teatime
G.C. BACKHURST. Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti
in Keriya +s . 2's < % (s, ce eee
D.A. TURNER. On the claimed occurrence of the
Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albofasciata
in Kenya « 2. = <9. 3 6 3 ca) nCnCnEES
137
14(
143
Printed in Kenya by AMREF, Box 30125, Nairobi
Lav ISSN 0250-4162
E\3oyr
wira ¢
A publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee of the
East Africa Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 9, No. 5, 1987: East African Bird Report 1985
SCOPUS
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues my be combined)
by the Omithological Sub-Committee of the East Africa Natural History Society.
Subscriptions are paybale to the OSC Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turner
[tel 48772], Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates:
East African residents: KShs 100.00 (KShs 107.50 up-country)
Overseas, surface mail: Stg£6.00, US$12.00 or equivalent in convertible
currency.
Overseas airmail: Stg£7.50, US$15.00 or equivalent in convertible
currency.
Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Those
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No
2852601, Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd., Market Branch, Box 30018, Nairobi.
Other members of the Ornithological Sub-Committee
Dr D.J. Pearson (Chairman), Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi,
Box 30197, Nairobi; house tel 47041. G.C. Backhurst (Editor of Scopus and Ring-
ing Organizer), Box 24702, Nairobi; house tel 891419, office tel 501301. N.E.
Baker, Dar es Salaam; Dr Margaret Carswell, UK; M.A.C. Coverdale, Nakuru; J.H.
Fanshawe, Tanzania; Mrs Cecilia Gichuki, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Dar es
Salaam; Dr W. Karanja, Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Nairobi; B.S. Meadows, Saudi
Arabia; Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Kampala; J.F. Reynolds, UK; D.K. Richards, Nairobi;
T. Stevenson, Baringo.
Notes for Contributors
Scopus welcomes original contributions on all aspects of the ornithology of eastern
Africa. Contributions will be assessed by members of the OSC and/or by
independent referees. The material published is divided into ‘papers’ and ‘short com-
munications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length.
Contributions should be typed in 1.5 or double spacing on one side of the paper
only, with wide margins all round, and should be sent in duplicate. Hand-written
MSS will also be considered but they must be clearly written, and sent in duplicate
too. Both English and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is
first mentioned, thereafter only one name should be used; they should be those of
Birds of East Africa unless the species does not occur in that work. Tables, which
should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, not grouped together on
separate sheets at the end. Metric units should be used. Contributions will be
welcomed on floppy disk—please contact the Editor for details.
Illustrations should be on good quality white paper or tracing material, in line, and
should not be larger than 19 x 23 cm. Unless the author can provide professional
quality lettering, it should be done lightly in pencil. Each illustration should be
numbered (Fig. 1, etc.) and be provided with a legend typed on a separate sheet of
paper. Photographs will be considered and should be good quality black and white.
Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the
Scopus 9 (5), June 1987
GENERAL REVIEW
The year 1985 produced one new species for East Africa: Laura’s Warbler Phyllo-
scopus laurae, known from adjacent parts of Zambia, was collected in forest at Kitun-
gula, southwest Tanzania. There were no other additions to national lists, but the
following were especially noteworthy: the second East African Jouanin’s Petrel
Bulweria fallax, captured alive, like the first example 32 years previously, at Malindi
in December; a Dickinson’s Kestrel Falco dickinsoni at Meru, the northernmost rec-
ord of this species to date; a White-collared Pratincole Glareola nuchalis in eastern
Kenya; a Black and White Flycatcher Bias musicus at Meru; a European Sparrow-
hawk Accipiter nisus at Ngulia; 55 Lesser Golden Plovers Pluvialis dominica near
Kipini, an unprecedented number in Kenya; one, and perhaps two Long-toed Stints
-Calidris subminuta at Naivasha; and a River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis apparently
wintering in Kitui.
In Kenya, many areas had already recovered by the end of 1984 from the disastrous
drought of that year, but much of the northwest was still parched early in 1985, and
the Uasin Gishu dams were dry. The Rift Valley lakes were receding to pre-1977
levels, and Ferguson’s Gulf in Lake Turkana dried up for the first time in three
decades. Few waders remained at Lake Nakuru, but the muddy shores of Lake Nai-
vasha supported many and varied migrant waterbirds. Palaearctic ducks were partic-
ularly abundant in the Thika area, with over 10,000 present on one dam at Makuyu.
Unseasonal showers affected many southern areas during January and February. The
bushlands of Kibwezi, South Kitui and Tsavo remained lush and green and supported
an abundance of wintering Palaearctic passerines, including Golden Orioles Oriolus
oriolus, Sprossers Luscinia luscinia and Marsh Warblers Acrocephalus palustris. The
long rains arrived at the end of March, and were generally good. Northward migration
was marked at the coast, with hundreds of shrikes (mostly Red-backed Lanius col-
lurio) and unusually high numbers of Eurasian Rollers Coracias garrulus, but was
not a major feature elsewhere. Large falls of migrants were noted after rain, how-
ever, at the lighted Kiambere dam construction site in Embu District on 29 March
(mainly Northern Wheatears Oenanthe oenanthe) and 14 April (mainly Whitethroats
Sylvia communis and shrikes), and at Samburu Lodge on 12 April.
The short rains reached most central areas by the beginning of November, but
were patchy and had little effect on most of the north. Tsavo became green only at
the end of November. Immense falls of night migrants occurred at Ngulia on 22 and
23 November, and night ringing was more successful here than for several years (see
detailed account on p. 160). Some large flocks of Lesser Spotted Eagles Aquila
pomarina and gatherings of up to 400 Eastern Red-footed Falcons Falco amurensis
were seen in and near Tsavo in late November. The Rift lakes rose slightly between
April and August, but had receded again by the end of the year to levels lower than
those of January. During November—December, an assortment of thousands of water-
birds—ducks, coots, herons, waders, pelicans and even Greater Flamingos
Phoenicopterus ruber—was present in the shallow Marina Bay area at Naivasha, and
146 East African Bird Report 1985
the drying Ferguson’s Gulf supported a concentrated collection of ducks, Black- _
winged Stilts Himantopus himantopus, smaller waders and gulls. |
This report has again depended on records supplied by a small band of observers
based at Nairobi and a few individuals resident elsewhere in Kenya and in scattered —
bases in Tanzania; just two observers supplied records from Uganda. Visitors from |
Europe and North America also made valuable contributions. In Kenya, at least, we |
feel that much interesting information is lost because observers lack the confidence |
or do not have the time to organize their records for us; or are perhaps uncertain of
just what is worth sending in. This is a pity; we welcome any contributions, and
although we must deal carefully with potential rarities we do not question or criticize
records unnecessarily. We would like to expand the base of our report material, and |
to this end plan to publish an update of our advice on submission of records in the |
near future. |
D.J. Pearson, Chairman, Ornithological Sub-Committee, EA.N.H.S.
Scopus 9 (5): 145-146, June 1987
SPECIES REPORT
This report covers the three East African countries Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Records are included under one or more categories, indicated by code letters as
follows:
S(A): Scarce species in category A (five or fewer previous records from East
Africa); all records of such species are published.
S(B): Scarce species in category B (six to twenty-five previous records
from East Africa); all records of such species are published.
R: Species of interest whose status in East Africa requires clarification, and
for which all records are Requested. Records may be listed or sum-
marized in full each year, or reviewed after several years.
E Records showing an Extension of range, or from areas where the
species is decidedly uncommon to scarce.
N Records included for their Numerical interest, either of particularly
large numbers or of careful counts.
D: Records of migrants where Dates are of interest.
B: |
M
Records of Breeding interest, from new or unusual areas or
involving interesting numerical elements.
: Records of Miscellaneous interest.
Records were collated by D.A. Turner and D.J. Pearson. All refer to Kenya
unless otherwise stated
Afrotropical and Oceanic Species
Podicipedidae: grebes
Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe R: up to c. 20 Naivasha Feb—-Apr
(LDCF, DJP); singles Thika OPs 5 Aug and Limuru 11 Aug (DJP); pair with |
two juvs Lake Bogoria 28 Apr (MS).
East African Bird Report 1985 147
Diomedeidae: albatrosses
Diomedea melanophrys Black-browed Albatross S: an adult off Shimoni 6
Oct (MH, PH).
Procellariidae: petrels, shearwaters
Bulweria fallax Jouanin’s Petrel S: 1 picked up Malindi 9 Dec (BB); later
died; skin deposited in Nairobi Museum. The second Kenya and East African
record.
Puffinus lherminieri Audubon’s Shearwater S: 1 off Shimoni 16 Feb
(MH, PH).
Hydrobatidae: storm petrels
Oceanites oceanicus Wilson’s Storm Petrel S: 1 off Shimoni 22 Sep
“> AME PH). |
Phaethontidae: tropicbirds
Phaethon lepturus White-tailed Tropicbird S: I off Shimoni 20 Nov (MH,
PH). 1 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 11 Mar (NEB).
Sulidae: boobies
Sula dactylatra Masked Booby R: singles off Shimoni 6 Feb, 6 Oct (MH,
PH).
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby S: an immature off Shimoni 22 Sep (MH,
PH).
- Fregatidae: frigatebirds
Fregata sp.: 1 off Shimoni 8 Sep (MH, PH).
Ardeidae: herons
Ixobrychus minutus paysii Little Bittern R: several Lake Baringo Jul-Sep
(DAT); 1 Lake Naivasha 16 Jun (DJP).
Ixobrychus sturmii Dwarf Bittern R: 6 Kalalu Ranch, 50 km W of Jilore, 4
Apr, and 4 still there 20 Apr (MACC). 1 Ruaha NP, Tanzania, 4 Aug (EL); 1 Dar
es Salaam, Tanzania, 19 May (NEB).
Ardeola idae Madagascar Squacco Heron R: recorded Dar es Salaam, Tan-
zania, 11 May-—Jul, max 14 (NEB); Thika OPs 24 May-—12 Oct (max 12) (DJP);
Mara GR Aug (DAT); also 2 Lake Nakuru 14 Jun, 1 Limuru 16 Jun and 12 Aug
and 1 Mombasa 2-12 Oct (DJP, CR, DAT).
Ardeola rufiventris Rufous-bellied Heron R: up to 3 Mufindi, Tanzania late
Aug—Nov and 2 Usangu Flats rice scheme, Tanzania, 16 Nov (AJB).
Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron R: small numbers most months Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania, Lake Jipe and Lower Tana. Also 1 Lake Naivasha 16 Dec and 1 Lake
Baringo 12 Dec (AJB, MACC, DJP, DKR, DAT).
Egretta gularis African Reef Heron R: singles Mida Creek 14 Feb (dark), and
19 Nov (white), and Amboseli 10 Jul (white) (DJP, DKR, DAT).
Ciconiidae: storks
Ciconia episcopus Woolly-necked Stork E: a pair Mara GR 5 May (FA)
and 3 Meru NP 30-31 Jul (DAT).
148 East African Bird Report 1985
Phoenicopteridae: flamingos
Phoeniconaias minor Lesser Flamingo EN: c. 220 Lake Munyanyango,
Rwenzori NP, Uganda, 21 Jun (DEP).
Anatidae: ducks, geese
Dendrocygna viduata White-faced Whistling Duck N: >1000 Usangu
Flats rice scheme, Tanzania, 16 Nov (AJB).
Nettapus auritus African Pygmy Goose R: recorded only from Gazi (Mar),
Lake Bilisa (Apr) and Mufindi, Tanzania (Sep—Nov) (AJB, MACC).
Anas sparsa African Black Duck E: singles Athi River, Nairobi NP, 20 and
25 Aug (ADL, DAT).
Accipitridae: birds of prey
Gypohierax angolensis Palm-nut Vulture E: singles Kindaruma Mar, Apr,
Jul and Nov (BB); 1-2 Meru NP Jul and Nov (DAT).
Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeyer R: 1 Hell’s Gate 25 Mar (MS).
Accipiter minullus Little Sparrowhawk R: singles Nairobi suburbs Jul,
Aug and Nov; 2 near Nakuru Nov; 1 near Mbiuni (Machakos) Nov (ADL, DJP,
PW, DAT).
Accipiter ovampensis Ovampo Sparrowhawk S: 1 Mara GR 10 Aug (WR,
BS). Photograph supplied. Satisfactory Kenya records of this species are very few
indeed.
Butastur rufipennis Grasshopper Buzzard R: several Meru NP early Nov
and parties Tsavo West NP mid Nov (DAT).
Buteo tachardus Mountain Buzzard E: 1 Mt Kulal 8 Aug (NR, IR).
Aviceda cuculoides Cuckoo Hawk R: recorded Nairobi NP and _ suburbs
Jun—Aug, Sigona 11 Aug, Meru 1 Aug, near Malindi 15 Jul and Mombasa—
Sokoke—Malindi area (several) 15-18 Aug (ADL, LDCF, DJP, DKR, DAT).
Chelictinia riocourii Swallow-tailed Kite R: frequent records Narok—Suswa
area, max 7 on 19 Jun (DKR); pair daily Koobi Fora 31 May-8 Jun (FA).
Macheiramphus alcinus Bat Hawk R: recorded Mombasa (Jul), Naivasha
(Oct), Kakamega (Nov) and Taita Hills Lodge (Nov) (CR, DKR, DAT, DEW).
Falconidae: falcons
Falco ardosiaceus Grey Kestrel E: 1 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 12 July was the
first record for the area (NEB).
Falco cuvieri African Hobby R: recorded Mara GR Nov and Mombasa Oct
(CR, DEW). 3
Falco dickinsoni Dickinson’s Kestrel S: 1 Meru NP 30 Jul (RB, WR,
BS). The fourth Kenya record, and the most northerly to date.
Falco ruplicoloides White-eyed Kestrel E: 6 at base of Mt Kulal 8 Aug
(NR, IR); 1 Lokitaung 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Phasianidae: game birds
Coturnix chiniensis Blue Quail R: 1 Madaba, Tanzania, 10 Jul (EL).
Francolinus levaillantii WRed-winged Francolin R: party of 5 Mofindi,
East African Bird Report 1985 149
Tanzania, 16 Feb (AJB).
Ptilopachus petrosus Stone Partridge R: calling Lewa Downs, Timau, Dec
(DKR).
Turnicidae: button quails :
Turnix sylvatica Button Quail M: 1 caught at night Ngulia 18 Dec (GCB).
Rallidae: rails
Crex egregia African Crake R: singles Mombasa 24 Jul, 10 Nov and 7 Dec
(CR); 2 Lake Baringo 3 Aug (DAT). 1 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 19 May was
first for the area (NEB); singles Mufindi, Tanzania, 18, 29 Apr and 14 May (AJB).
Porphyrio porphyrio Allen’s Gallinule R: >50 Lake Baringo Aug—Sep and
1 there 10 Nov (DAT); regular Mombasa Jul—Dec (CR).
Rallus caerulescens African Water Rail BM: 4 ads with juvs Mara GR 10
Aug (DAT); 1 caught at night Ngulia 10 Dec (GCB).
Sarothrura boehmi Streaky-breasted Pygmy Crake S: 1 Mufindi, Tan-
zania, 27 May (AJB); attracted to lights at night.
Sarothrura rufa Red-chested Pygmy Crake R: a few present all months Kai-
mosi (DAT).
Heliornithidae: finfoots
Podica senegalensis African Finfoot R: pair with 2 young Tana River below
Kindaruma 10 Oct (BB); 1 Thika River, Kamburu 29 Oct (BB); pair resident Athi
River, Nairobi NP (DAT) and Ruaha NP, Tanzania, 21 Jul (NEB).
Otididae: bustards
Neotis denhami Denham’s Bustard R: 1 Lemek, Mara GR Jun (DKR); at Lai-
kipia: 2 near Maralal 25 Apr, 1 Laikipia Ranch 29 Aug, 3 Mugie 31 Oct and 7
there 5 Dec, 3 P&D Ranch 11 and 28 Nov (MACC, DAT); 2 Narok airstrip 11
Nov (DAT).
Otis kori Kori Bustard N: >25 in wheat fields near Narok 11 Aug (DAT).
Jacanidae: jacanas
Microparra capensis Lesser Jacana R: few resident Mufindi area, Tanzania
(AJB).
Recurvirostridae: stilts, avocets
Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt B: at least 30 juvs Lake
Magadi 21 July including a half-grown unfledged chick (DJP).
Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet E: 6 Rwenzori NP, Uganda, 21 Jun (DEP).
Glareolidae: coursers, pratincoles
Rhinoptilus chalcopterus Violet-tipped Courser R: 1 caught at night
Ngulia 10 Dec (GCB) was the first for the Lodge. In Tanzania, 4 Madaba airstrip
May-Jun (EL) and >40 Mikumi NP 7 Jun (NEB).
Glareola nuchalis White-collared Pratincole E: 1 with Common Prat-
incoles G. pratincola 16 Feb where Tana River flowed over small falls out of Lake
Bilisa, Garsen (DJP, MACC).
Glareola ocularis Madagascar Pratincole R: 20+ Sabaki 17 Aug (DAT);
150 East African Bird Report 1985
10+ Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 7 Jun (NEB).
Laridae: gulls, terns
Anous stolidus Common Noddy R: 1 Sabaki River 3 Feb (LDCF).
Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B: 10+ pairs nesting Limuru swamp
14 Jun (DJP); few recently fledged juvs Lake Nakuru 11 Aug (DJP).
Sterna albifrons Little Tern E: c. 10 Lake Shakababo and 1 Lake Bilisa, a few
km inland, 15-16 Feb (DJP, MACC).
Sterna anaethetus Bridled Tern R: 1 off Watamu 29 Dec (DAT).
Sterna bengalensis Lesser Crested Tern E: inland, 1 Lake Shakababo 15
Feb (DJP); 1 Lake Naivasha 9 Aug (BM).
Sterna repressa White-cheeked Tern R: 1 Mombasa Apr; small flocks flying
south 26-28 May (MACC); 1 Sabaki mouth 21 Oct (CR).
Rynchopidae: skimmers
Rynchops flavirostris African Skimmer R: small flock Lake Naivasha (max
30) Feb—1 May (DJP) and 1 there 21 Jul (LDCF); several Sabaki mouth Feb, Apr
and Oct (LDCF, CR); 1 Kindaruma 28 Jul (BB); 5 Lake Jipe 16 Apr (MS); 12+
Koobi Fora 31 May-8 Jun (FA). 200+ Rwenzori NP, Uganda, Feb—Mar (DEP).
Cuculidae: cuckoos
Clamator glandarius Great Spotted Cuckoo R: recorded Nairobi Apr and
Magadi road Mar (DJP, PW).
Clamator jacobinus Black and White Cuckoo R: recorded Tsavo West NP,
Amboseli, Naivasha, Baringo, Samburu GR and Mara GR Feb; Nairobi NP
Feb—Apr and Jul; Shimba Hills and Kalalu Ranch Apr; Kamburu May; Meru NP
Jun; and Koobi Fora Jun. Most records, however, from Kibwezi/Tsavo area
Nov—Dec (LDCF, BB, MACC, FA, DJP, DKR, CR, DAT, PW).
Clamator levaillantii Levaillant?’s Cuckoo R: 1 Nairobi NP 5 Apr
(LDCF).
Cuculus gularis African Cuckoo R: calling: Magadi road Mar, Baringo Jun
and Maktau, Makindu and Ngulia Nov (DJP, DAT).
Cuculus solitarius Red-chested Cuckoo E: calling Mt Kulal 8 Aug (NR,
IR).
Ceuthmochares aereus Yellowbill M: 1 caught at night Ngulia 10 Dec
(GCB). The second record for the Lodge.
Centropus grillii Black Coucal R: 1 Mombasa end Oct (CR); 2 Lake es |
boli end Dec (DAT); 1 Morogoro, Tanzania, 11 Oct (AJB).
Strigidae: owls
Scotopelia peli Pel’s Fishing Owl R: pair prospecting Thika River at Kam-
buru 30 Jun and one same site 27 Dec (BB).
Caprimulgidae: nightjars
Caprimulgus donaldsoni Donaldson-Smith’s Nightjar RM: caught at
Ngulia 21 Nov and 9 Dec (GCB, DJP).
Caprimulgus fraenatus Dusky Nightjar RM: 2 caught Ngulia 14 Dec
(GCB).
East African Bird Report 1985 151
Caprimulgus inornatus Plain Nightjar RM: caught at Ngulia 21 Nov and
23 Nov (GCB, DJP).
Apodidae: swifts
Apus berlioad Forbes-Watson’s Swift R: several over Sokoke Forest late
Dec (DAT).
Apus horus Horus Swift E: 1 Kilifi-Ribe road 21 Nov (CR).
Meropidae; bee-eaters
Merops hirundineus Swailow-tailed Bee-eater R: 1 Madaba, Tanzania,
27-28 Apr and 1 Songea, Tanzania, 15 Aug (PS).
Merops nubicus Carmine Bee-eater E: few Tsavo West NP near Kamboyo
mid Oct (DJP).
Coaraciidae: rollers
Coracias abyssinicus Abyssinian Roller E: 1 Kisumu 9 Dec (DAT).
Bucerotidae: hornbills
Tockus hemprichii Hemprich’s Hornbill E: 2 Laikipia Ranch 10 Aug
(MACC); 2 Menengai 10 Dec (MACC); 4 Marich Pass 12 Oct (ADL).
Capitonidae: barbets
Pogoniulis chrysoconus Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird E: 1 Kakamega town
16 Nov (DEW).
Picidae: woodpeckers
Denropicos Stierlingi Stierling’s Woodpecker E: resident Madaba, Tan-
zania, throughout the year (EC).
Picoides obsoletus Brown-backed Woodpecker R: singles Nairobi suburbs
most months; 1 Naro Moru Jun (DKR) and 1 near Arusha, Tanzania, Sep (DKR).
Pittidae: pittas
Pitta angolensis African Pitta R: 3 caught at night Mufindi, Tanzania, 23
Nov (AJB); 1 recorded Njombe, Tanzania, Nov (EC).
Alaudidae: larks
Mirafra nigricans Dusky Bush Lark RE: 1 Madaba, Tanzania, 31 Mar (PS).
Full details received.
Hirundinidae: swallows
Hirundo atrocaerulea Blue Swallow R: recorded Luhoto, Tanzania, Jan and
Feb and up to 12 Mufindi, Tanzania, to 14 May and from 18 Sep (EMB).
Paridae: tits
Parus leucomelas Black Tit E: 1 Bagamoyo, Tanzania, 18 Aug (NEB).
Timaliidae: babblers
Turdoides hindei Hinde’s Pied Babbler R: 3 at usual site Kianyaga 8 Oct
(DAT); no other records.
Pycnonotidae: bulbuls
Nicator chloris Nicator M: 1 caught in the bush at Ngulia 23 Nov (DJP) was
new for the site.
152 East African Bird Report 1985
Turdidae: thrushes ass
Cercotrichas hartlaubi Brown-backed Scrub Robin R: recorded Nairobi,
Kianyaga, Aberdare NP and Naro Moru (various observers). .
Dryocichloides poliopterus Grey-winged Robin Chat R: recorded near
Kapenguria Apr and Saiwa Feb and Oct (DJP, CR, ADL). |
Monticola angolensis Little Rock Thrush R: records from Wamba-Maralal
road (DEW), Meru town (DKR) and near Mweiga (DAT). !
Turdus fischeri Spotted Ground Thrush R: 2 Jadini Forest 10 Jul (LDCR)
1 Gede 14 Apr (CR).
Sylviidae: warblers 2 ee
Chloropeta gracilirostris Papyrus Yellow Warbler R: 1 Kendu “Bay end
Dec (DAT).
Eremomela scotops Green-capped Eremomela R: 1 Sokoke Forest 18 Aug
(DAT).
Heliolais erythroptera Red-winged Warbler R: in Tanzania: singles Madaba
10 Mar and Apr (PS); a pair feeding fledged young N of Chilinze 12 Jan (NEB).
Hyliota flavigaster Yellow-bellied Hyliota R: 2 Kongalai escapment Apr
(CR); recorded Madaba, Tanzania, Mar—Apr (PS).
Phylloscopus laurae Laura’s Warbler S(A): ‘a male iesnd Apr, Kitungulu,
Tanzania (DCM, RS). First record for Tanzania and East Africa, see Scopus 10:
99-102.
Phylloscopus’ ruficapilla Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler’ E: party
of c. 10 Kikoneni, near Mrima Hill, south coast, 28 Mar (MACC).
Sylvietta isabellina Somali Long-billed Crombec R: 2-3 near Mutha, S
Kitui, Mar; several NE of Keuso, N Kitui, mid Mar (DJP); 2 Meru NP Jul
(DAT); a few Lokitaung mid Dec (DJP, DAT).
Muscicapidae: flycatchers
Muscicapa caerulescens Ashy Flycatcher E: an adult with juv near Mbiuni
(Machakos District) 15 Oct; also at same site Nov (DIP, AEB).
Muscicapa gambagae Gambaga Flycatcher R: 2 near Wamba end Dec
(DAT).
Myioparus plumbeus Lead-coloured Flycatcher R: 1 in riverine Acacia few
km N of Kongolai 22 Feb (DJP, MACC); 1 base Marich Pass 12 Oct (ADL); 2
Sokoke Forest late Dec (DAT).
Myopornis boehmi Bohm’s Flycatcher R: a few in miombo woodland
Madaba—Mahenge, Tanzania, mid Sep (AJB).
Bias musicus Black and White Flycatcher RE: 3 (2 fenvales and 1 male) in
forest edge near Meru town 29 Jul (DAT).
Motacillidae: pipits, wagtails
Anthus vaalensis Buffy Pipit R: recorded Madaba, Tanzania, May @S).
Tmetothylacus tenellus Golden Pipit E: 1 Olorgessaillie 11 May (LDCF).
East African Bird Report 1985 153
Malaconotidae: bush shrikes
Dryoscopus pringlii Pringle’s Puffback R: several seen E of Cheuso, N Kit-
ui mid Mar (DJP); recorded Meru NP Jul and Nov (DAT).
Laniarius ruficeps Red-naped Bush Shrike R: very common E of Mutha, S
Kitui, and E of Cheuso, N Kitui, mid Mar (DJP).
Laniidae: shrikes
Lanius souzae Souza’s Shrike R: 1 Madaba, Tanzania, 15 Mar (EC).
Prionopidae: helmet shrikes
Prionops retzii Retz’s Helmet Shrike E: party Athi River E of Mbiuni
(Machakos District) 15 Oct and same area end Nov (DJP, AEB).
Sturnidae: starlings
Cinnyricinclus sharpii Sharpe’s Starling R: 1 near Kongolai Apr (CR); 2
forest edge near Meru town 1 Aug (DAT).
Spreo shellyi Shelley’s Starling RE: a few Mackinnon Road Aug—Nov
(GCB, CR, DAT).
Ploceidae: weavers
Anomalospiza imberbis Parasitic Weaver R: 1 Nairobi NP 20 Mar (DKR).
Euplectes diadematus Fire-fronted Bishop EN: 1 Kamburu 24 Mar (BB);
flocks in Tsavo West NP at Lake Jipe and in Samburu GR Apr (MS).
Ploceus golandi Clarke’s Weaver R: c. 10 Sokoke Forest 4 Aug (LDCF).
Ploceus heuglini WHeuglin’s Masked Weaver RE: 2 Lokitaung 16 Dec
(DJP, DAT).
Ploceus oliveiceps Olive-headed Golden Weaver R: 1 (nominate) Mad-
aba, Tanzania, 24 Mar (EC); 2 Magambo Forest, Lushoto, Tanzania, 22 Dec of
the distinctive race nicolli (the Usambara Weaver) (NEB).
Passer domesticus House Sparrow R: 2 S shore of Kilifi Creek, 30 Aug—1
Sep (GCB).
Vidua hypocherina Steel-blue Whydah R: 2 30 km §S of Kitui Mar; 1 Mutha
(S Kitui) Mar; 1 40 km E of Cheusi (N Kitui) Mar (DJP).
Vidua obtusa Broad-tailed Paradise Whydah R: common Madaba, Tanzania,
May-Jun (EC).
Estrildidae: waxbills
Estrilda perreini Lavendar Wakxbill R: several Madaba, Tanzania, 26 Jan; 3
Mikumi NP, Tanzania, Jul (NEB).
Estrilda troglodytes Black-rumped Wakxbill R: small party Ahero rice
sckeme Feb (DJP, MACC).
Pyrenestes minor Lesser Seed-cracker R: up to 5 Mufindi, Tanzania,
Aug—Dec (AJB); several Luhoto, Tanzania, Feb (EMB); 1 Lilando Quarry near
Madaba, Tanzania, Feb (EL).
Pytilia afra Orange-winged Pytilia R: 1 near Songea, Tanzania, Apr (PS); 1
Poroto Mts, Tanzania, Aug (ES).
Lonchura_ fringilloides Magpie Mannikin R: singles Madaba, Tanzania, Apr
154 East African Bird Report 1985
(PS); flock 200+ Lake Dhambwe, Poroto Mts, Tanzania, Oct (ES).
Fringillidae: finches, buntings
Serinus koliensis Papyrus Canary R: several Kendu Bay end Dec (DAT).
Serinus mennelli Black-eared Seed-eater R: small groups in miombo wood-
land, Madaba—Mahenge, Tanzania, Feb, and May—Oct (AJB, EL).
Serinus reichardi Stripe-breasted Seed-eater R: small groups in miombo
woodland Madaba—Mahenge, Tanzania, Feb, May, Aug and Sep (AJB).
Palaearctic Species |
Ciconia ciconia White Stork EDN: up to 1000 Timau 26 Jan; 1 Kibimba,
Uganda 8 Dec (MJC); >200 Mara GR 14 Nov (DAT).
Ciconia nigra Black Stork RM: recorded to 5 Apr and from 25 Sep, with
records of 1-2 birds Nairobi, Ruiru, Aberdares, Timboroa, Samburu GR, Rum-
uruti, Mara GR, Meru NP and Mtito Andei (ADC, MACC, DAT, DEW). One fly-
ing at 2290 m above Kiambu 12 Nov (FA).
Anas acuta Pintail N: c. 1000 Makuyu 2 Feb and c. 3000 there 10 Feb (DJP).
Anas clypeata Shoveler N: c. 5000 Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Anas crecca Teal R: up to 11 Thika OPs Jan-Feb; 1-2 Dandora OPs late
Jan—early Feb; >4 Naivasha 3 Feb; 2 Thika OPs early Dec (DJP, DAT).
Anas penelope Wigeon R: 12 Laikipia Ranch 17 Jan; up to 3 Naivasha, last
seen 25 Mar (DJP); 1 Makutano (Machakos) on small dam 1 Dec (DJP).
Anas querquedula Garganey N: c. 5000 Makuyu 10 Feb (DJP); c. 3000
Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck R: c. 20 Naivasha 20 Mar, and 5 there 25 Mar |
(DJP).
Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck S: a male Thika OPs 26 Jan and 2 Mar
(DJP); a female/immature Dandora OPs 7 Feb (DJP).
Circaetus gallicus gallicus Short-toed Snake Eagle S: 1 L Nakuru 6 Feb
(JF-L, NC, DCB). Full details received.
Accipiter nisus Eurasian Sparrowhawk S: a female Ngulia 15-16 Nov |
(DJP, GR, FR, DEGB).
Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle R: 3 Rongai and 3 Menengai 19 Feb |
(MACC, DJP); 4 Naivasha 19 Feb (DKR); several Mara GR 18 Mar (DKR). Up |
to 12 Mufindi grasslands, Tanzania 16 Feb-21 Mar (AJB). Recorded 3 Nov on-
wards Mara GR, the Rift, Nairobi, Isiolo and Tsavo, with c. 20 Isiolo 9 Nov and |
c. 40 Mtito Andei and Ngulia 23 Nov (DEGB, AP, DJP, DKR, DAT).
Buteo buteo Common Buzzard ND: up to 150+ Mufindi grasslands, Tanzania
to 21 Mar and from 17 Oct (AJB); 1 Sokoke Forest 2 and 4 Apr (MACC, PP);
10+ Mara GR 13-14 Nov (DAT).
Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle R: recorded Nairobi, Meru, Tsavo and Gar-
sen during Feb (MACC, DJP, DKR); 1 Dar es Salaam 6 Jul (NEB). Seen
Rumuruti, Kakamega and Voi mid—Nov, and Nakuru and Tsavo West NPs Dec
East African Bird Report 1985 155
(GCB, MACC, DJP, DKR, DEW).
Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard R: 1 Tsavo West 16 Feb (DKR); 1 robbing
hornets’ nest Langata 20 Apr (PF); 1 Sokoke Forest 2 Apr (MACC, PP) and 1
there on 28 Dec (DAT).
Falco amurensis Eastern Red-footed Falcon R: up to 5 at termite hatches
Mufindi, Tanzania 27 Jan—10 Apr (AJB); 2 Karawa, 70 km N of Malindi, 1 Apr
and 2 Kalalu Ranch, E of Tsavo East NP, 3 Apr (MACC, PP); 1 Nairobi NP 20
Jan (JSA, CJF, DJP) and 3 on 14 Mar (LDCF); c. 500 Mtito Andei/Kamboyo
area, Tsavo West NP, 20 Nov, with c. 200 remaining on 21 Nov, but only 15 on
24 Nov (DJP, DEGB, AP, DAT); 100s 5 km SE of Simba, moving E, 24 Nov
(RJT); 2 Kibimba, Uganda 7-8 Dec (MJC).
Falco cherrug Saker Falcon S(B): 1 Nairobi NP 17 Feb (JF-L, NB, DCB et
al.). Full details received.
Falco concolor Sooty Falcon R: an adult Tiwi (south coast) 14 Apr (DJP).
Falco subbuteo Hobby N: commonly overwintering Mufindi grasslands, Tan-
zania up to 10 Apr and from 18 Oct, max 80+ in Mar (AJB).
Porzana porzana Spotted Crake S(B): 1 Ngulia 16 Dec (GCB).
Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher R: 1 Malindi 6 Oct (LLD), 10 Dec
and 19-20 Dec (BB, DAT). On the last occasion the bird was recognized as a juv
of the race longipes. |
Charadrius asiaticus Caspian Plover DM: an early bird Minjila, near Garsen,
5 Aug (LDCF); first seen Mara plains 10 Aug (DAT); first seen Rumur-
uti/Laikipia area 11 Nov (MACC); c. 25 Lake Bilisa 16 Feb (MACC,
DJP)—small numbers appear to be regular here.
Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover S(B): 6+ Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec
(DJP, DAT).
Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover R: recorded to 24 Mar and from 25
Oct, max 10+. New sites: Suam River, Athi River along Kitui-Machakos road,
and Kindaruma, where regularly up to 10 (BB, DJP, DAT).
Charadrius leschenaulti Great Sandplover E: inland (apart from Lake
Turkana): 1 Kindaruma 25 Oct (BB).
Charadrius mongolus Mongolian Sandplover E: inland: recorded only at
Ferguson’s Gulf, where it is regular.
Pluvialis dominica Lesser Golden Plover S(B): 1 Naivasha 13 Aug (PGA);
1 Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT); at Sherekiko, 25 km S of Kipini, lower
Tana River, 7 on 29 Dec and 57 on 31 Dec (ALA), see Scopus 10: 107-108.
Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover E inland: 1 Kindaruma 2-9 Nov (BB) and 1
Lake Baringo 11 Nov (DEW); at Ferguson’s Gulf, where probably regular, 10+ on
17 Dec (DJP, DAT); 2 Lutembe, Uganda 24 Nov and 1 Kibimba, Uganda 7-8 Dec
(MIC).
Numenius arquata Curlew M: 1 flying S 22 Jul and 6 on 25 Jul at Diani
(MACC). Small numbers have been noted coasting south at this time in previous
years.
156 East African Bird Report 1985
Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank RD: recorded to 19 Apr and from 17
Nov, max c. 25 Dandora OPs 7 Feb; new sites: Saguta Mugie and Naro Moru; 1,
presumably oversummering, Naivasha 1 Jun (LDCF). In Uganda, 2 Kibimba 7-8
Dec (MJC).
Tringa totanus Redshank R: 1 Galu (MACC) and 1 Mida 20 Nov (DAT) were
the only records received.
Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper NE: max coast count 250+ Mida 20 Nov
(DAT). Inland: singles Naivasha 17 and 31 Mar (LDCF), 2 Kindaruma 15 Sep and
3 on 21 Sep (BB), 1 Oloiden, Naivasha, 1 Nov SB, AMP) and 3+ Ferguson’s
Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe D: 3+ Naivasha 1 May (DJP).
Calidris alba Sanderling E inland: 1 Kindaruma 6 Oct, 1 on 9 Nov and 2 on 12
Dec (BB); 2 Nakuru 12 Nov (DEW); 30 Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Calidris subminuta Long-toed Stint S(B): 1 Naivasha 3 and 20 Mar; 1 in
breeding plumage there 1 May (DJP). See Scopus 10: 41-42.
Calidris temminckii Temminck’s Stint R: recorded Lakes Baringo, Nakuru
and Naivasha up to Mar and from Nov. Also singles Kindaruma 31 Jan, 24 and 31
Mar and 15 Nov (BB); 14+ L Bilisa 16 Feb and 6 there 1 Apr (MACC, DJP, PP);
5 Ahero 25 Feb (DJP, MACC).
Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit R: recorded Naivasha 3 Feb-18 May,
max c. 30 (DJP, LDCF); 6 Mara GR 4 Jan (DKR); 6+ L Bilisa 16 Feb and 3
there 1 Apr (MACC, DJP, PP); 1 Baringo 6 and 9 Nov and c. 50 Ferguson’s Gulf
17-18 Dec (DJP, DAT). In Uganda, 1 Kibimba 8 Dec (MJC).
Arenaria interpres Turnstone E inland: singles Dandora OPs 13 Oct, Lake
Magadi 30 Oct and Lake Jipe 17 Nov (DJP, DKR, DAT).
Phalaropus lobatus Red-necked Phalarope R: a few off Shimoni mid—Mar
and scores 20 Oct (PH, MH); 75+ Watamu 27—28 Dec (DAT).
Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew R: 2 Mara GR 12 Nov (DAT).
Larus argentatus Herring Gull N: c. 30 Malindi 29 Aug and 20+ there 19-20
Nov (GCB, DAT). A few at Ferguson’s Gulf Dec where the species now appears
to be regular in small numbers (DAT).
Larus genei Slender-billed Gull R: 5—6 Ferguson’s Gulf 17 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Larus ichthyaetus Great Black-headed Gull S(B): 1 Malindi 31 Dec (DAT).
Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull N: >S00 Ferguson’s Gulf mid—Dec
(DAT).
Sterna hirundo Common Tern N: >500 Malindi 31 Dec was an interesting
date for such a large number (DAT).
Cuculus canorus Eurasian Cuckoo NDM: very many Sokoke 14 Apr; 1
taken by genet Genetta sp. inside Ngulia Lodge at night on 19 Dec (GCB). ;
Cuculus poliocephalus Lesser Cuckoo R: 1 Sokoke Forest 31 Mar |
(MACC, PP) was the only record received. 1
Otus scops Scops Owl R: 1 Lavington, Nairobi, 26 Mar was presumed to have |
East African Bird Report 1985 157
been Palaearctic (DAT). Singles caught and ringed Ngulia 17, 18 and 19 Dec were
all Palaearctic (GCB).
Caprimulgus europaeus Eurasian Nightjar R: 3 Sokoke Forest 28 Mar and
1 Diani 6 Apr (MACC, PP). A few recorded (including 3 ringed) Ngulia 2 Nov —-9
Dec and 1 Kilaguni 6 Nov (GCB, DJP, DKR).
Apus apus Eurasian Swift N: many 100s Voi—Kibwezi in unusually green
conditions 28 Jan and 27 Feb (DJP).
Upupa epops epops Hoopoe R: recorded Kongolai 22 Feb and N of Rumuruti
26 Nov (MACC, DJP). In Uganda, 1 Mburu NP 3 Feb and 1 Lutembe 3 Nov
(MIC).
Trania gutturalis lrania R: 3 in song 40 km E of Mutomo (Kitui) 10 Mar and 1
in song 70 km NE of Mwingi Market 16 Mar; 1 Masinga 24 Mar (DJP); 114
ringed Ngulia 21 Nov—19 Dec; 3+ Meru NP 10 Nov; singles Lake Jipe 24 Nov,
Taveta 25 Nov and Lake Nakuru NP 7 Dec (GCB, BB, DJP, ADL).
Luscinia luscinia Sprosser D: wintering and spring birds as follows: recorded 2
sites 30-40 km S of Kitui 9 Mar; c. 30 km E of Mutomo (Kitui) 10 Mar; 2+
Mtito Andei 8 Apr (DJP).
Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush E: 1 Mufindi, Tanzania 11 Jan (AJB).
Oenanthe oenanthe Northern Wheatear D: 1 Tsavo East NP 20 Jun (DKR).
Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart R: singles Kipsain and Kongolai 22 Feb
(DJP, MACC).
Saxicola rubetra Whinchat E: recorded Mufindi, Tanzania 27 Feb and 7 Apr
(AJB).
Acrocephalus griseldis Basra Reed Warbler R: 1 in song Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania 5 Jan (NEB); several singing birds Lake Shakababo 15 Feb (DIP,
MACC); 108 ringed Ngulia 22 Nov-19 Dec, max 30 (ringed) on 14 Dec (GCB,
DJP); 1 in song Mackinnon Road 24 Dec (DJP).
Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler DE: several (5+ in one _ site)
wintering 30-50 km S of Kitui and also 20-30 km E of Mutomo (Kitui) 9-10
Mar (DJP). On northward passage, recorded Tiwi 9 and 14 Apr, near Mtito Andei
8 Apr, Athi River 16 Apr (DJP). From usual areas of Kenya on southward
passage, and also 1 Mara GR 14-15 Nov (DAT), and 1 Naivasha 4 Dec (DJP,
DAT).
Hippolais olivetorum Olive-tree Warbler R: 1 Vanga 13 Apr (DIP,
MACC); singles Meru NP (in song) 10 Nov, Maktau 15 Nov and Taveta 25 Nov
(DJP); 6 ringed Ngulia 22 Nov—10 Dec (GCB, DJP).
Hippolais pallida Olivaceous Warbler D: late bird singing Nairobi 14 May
(GCB).
Locustella fluviatilis River Warbler R: 1, 40 km S of Kitui 9 Mar was
presumed to be overwintering (DJP); 202 ringed Ngulia 21 Nov—19 Dec (GCB,
DJP); the only other passage record was one in song at Mackinnon Road 24 Dec
(DJP).
158 East African Bird Report 1985
Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler R: common Commiphora woodland E of
Mutomo and NE of Mwingi Market, Kitui District, mid—Mar (DJP); 1 Kiambere
14 Apr (BB); 1 Narok 15 Nov (DAT); 2 Lokitaung 16 Dec (DJP, DAT).
Otherwise from usual areas in SE Kenya.
Ficedula albicollis semitorquata Collared Flycatcher S(B): a male of
this race Kakamega 24 Mar (DJP, PP); an accompanying female Ficedula was
likely to have been of this race and species.
Anthus cervinus Red-throated Pipit E: c. 20 Kibimba, Uganda 7 Dec and
c. 300 8 Dec (MIC).
Back Records (Palaearctic species)
Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover: 5, 10 km NNW of Mombasa 4
Nov 1984 and 1 on 24 Nov 1984 (CR); 1 Kindaruma 15 Dec 1984 (BB).
Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank: 1 in grassland near Naro Moru 29 Dec
1984 (CR).
Calidris alba Sanderling: 1 Kindaruma 6 Oct and 12 Dec 1984 (BB).
Sterna hirundo Common Tern inland: a Polish-ringed bird caught ana released
21 Oct 1984, found dead there next day (Dr William H. Buskirk per GCB).
Hippolais icterina \cterine Warbler: 1 stunned by window at Bamburi, Mom-
basa, Apr 1984 (CR).
EAST AFRICAN RARE BIRDS COMMITTEE
During 1985 the newly formed East African Rare Birds Committee was asked to ad-
judicate on a number of records. The following three records were accepted:
Larus dominicanus Kelp Gull
1 Malindi Fish Harbour 2 January 1984 (J. Mulder, J. de Ridder). First record for
Kenya and East Africa.
Oenanthe deserti Desert Wheatear
2 Kiunga 17 February 1984 (G.C. Backhurst). First record for Kenya and East
Africa.
The following record was not accepted:
Tringa Solitaria Solitary Sandpiper
1 Lake Baringo 23 October 1984.
The following are members of the Rarities Committee:
J.S. Ash DJ. Pearson
D. Fisher A.J. Prater
G. Nikolaus J.C. Sinclair
S.C. Madge T. Stevenson
R.J. Dowsett D.A. Turner
East African Bird Report 1985 159
First and last dates of some Palaearctic migrant landbirds
Species
Cuculus canorus
Caprimulgus europaeus
Merops apiaster
M. persicus
Coracias garrulus
Riparia riparia
Delichon urbica
Cercotrichas galactotes
Trania gutturalis
Luscinia luscinia
L. megarhynchos
Monticola saxatilis
Oenanthe isabellina
O. oenanthe
O. pleschanka
Acrocephalus arundinaceus
A. griseldis
A. palustris
A. scirpaceus
A. schoenobaenus
Hippolais languida
H. olivetorum
H. pallida
Locustella fluviatilis
Phylloscopus trochilus
Sylvia atricapilla
S. borin
S. communis
S. nisoria
Muscicapa Striata
Anthus cervinus
A. trivialis
Motacilla cinerea
M. flava
Lanius collurio
L. isabellinus
L. minor
Last date
14 Apr Tiwi
06 Apr Diani
19 Apr Naivasha
14 Apr Tiwi
15 Apr Tsavo
01 May Naivasha
19 Apr Naivasha
08 Apr Mtto Andei
14 Apr Tiwi
10 Apr Tiwi
06 Apr Ngong
30 Mar Nairobi
22 Apr Kariobangi
16 Apr Athi River
27 Apr Athi River
05 May Athi River
13 Apr Vanga
14 May Nairobi
01 May Nairobi
25 Mar Kakamega
16 Apr Athi River
14 Apr Kiambere
14 Apr Kiambere
17 Apr Nairobi
01 May Naivasha
22 Apr Kariobangi
15 Apr Mackinnon Rd
19 May Kijabe
First date
04 Nov Mt Kenya
21 Nov Ngulia
15 Sep Nairobi
06 Nov Baringo
18 Oct Meru NP
17 Nov Bura (Taita)
10 Nov Meru NP
02 Nov Kangundo
03 Nov Meru NP
13 Oct Athi Plains
14 Sep Samburu
21 Oct Machakos
21 Nov Ngulia
14 Nov Mtito/Mara
17 Nov Lake Jipe
10 Nov Meru NP
02 Nov Meru and
Kangundo
21 Nov Ngulia
30 Oct Nairobi
07 Nov Muhoroni
03 Nov Meru NP
06 Nov Baringo
23 Oct Nairobi
06 Nov Baringo
11 Oct Cheranganis
01 Nov Timau
03 Nov Meru NP
02 Nov Naivasha
Records refer to central and eastern Kenya except where otherwise stated.
160 East African Bird Report 1985
RINGING AND MIGRATION AT NGULIA, TSAVO, AUTUMN
1985
G.C. Backhurst and D.J. Pearson
Ringers spent nineteen nights at Ngulia Safari Lodge studying migration from 15
November to 19 December, and catching was possible on all but four of them. The
frequent misty conditions and good supply of helpers on some nights accounted for
the high total of 6253 Palaearctic migrants ringed—the fourth highest total in the 17
years the site has been worked.
In recent years most of the quartz-halogen lights at the Lodge (which, with mist,
are responsible for attracting migrating birds) have been reduced in power to 500 W.
In addition, when lights fail, they are often not replaced for several nights. Thus
there have been nights with peak numbers of birds but small catches due to the in-
adequate attracting power of the lights. This year, from the early December period,
we avoided this frustrating situation by bringing our own 1 kW light which we
erected on a stout Linhof tripod immediately to the north of the Lodge.
There were seven nights with little or no mist, but on the other twelve conditions
were excellent. During the November visit, the nights of 22nd and 23rd saw except-
ionally large numbers of birds grounded in the bush near the Lodge (bush catches of
322 and 448 respectively) with catching continuing till 18:00 on 23rd. Marsh
Warblers (scientific names are given in Table 1), Sprossers and Whitethroats predom-
inated (ratio 3.3:2:1) and there were 43 Iranias and 16 Basra Reed Warblers, but
numbers of other migrants were low. A Nicator Nicator chloris caught in the bush
on 23rd was new for the area.
Eurasian Rollers were common in the Park on 7 December at the beginning of the
second visit, but few other migrants were in evidence. All but two of the nights
from 8 to 19 December were more or less ideal and the numbers of birds caught was
limited only by the number of ringers present (never more than two together). Marsh
Warblers predominated with 601 on 13th and 481 next day and Sprossers were also
Tabie 1 continued
Totals of Palaearctic species ringed in previous autumn seasons but not in this year
are as follows: Little Bittern Ixobrychus m. minutus 4, Eleonora’s Falcon Falco
eleonorae 1, Corncrake Crex crex 7, Spotted Crake Porzana porzana 1, Great Snipe
Gallinago media 1, Eurasian Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2, Lesser Cuckoo C. polio-
cephalus 1, Sand Martin Riparia riparia 6, Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus 13,
Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus 3, Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2, Icterine Warbler
Hippolais icterina 3, Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides 1, Wood Warbler
Phylloscopus sibilatrix 2, Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 48, Yellow Wagtail Motacilla
flava 3, hybrid Red-backed/Red-tailed Shrike Lanius collurio~isabellinus 9.
From December 1969 a total of 74066 Palaearctic night-migrating birds of 45
species has been ringed at Ngulia during southward passage between October and
February.
East African Bird Report 1985 161
Table 1 Numbers of Palaearctic night migrants ringed at Ngulia Safari Lodge
between October and February in the years 1969-1986*
Species i 1985/6* %* Total 1969—
total 1986*
Scops Owl Otus scops 3 - 5
Eurasian Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus 3 16 244
Eurasian Roller Coracias garrulus 1 36 38
Eurasian Swallow Hirundo rustica 4 40 135
Rufous Bush Chat Cercotrichas galactotes 10 17 7710
Irania [rania gutturalis 114 119 1370
Sprosser Luscinia luscinia 1369 138 14501
Nightingale L. megarhynchos 17 45 504
Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis 5 60 114
Isabelline Wheatear Oenantie isabellina a 73 1B)
Northern Wheatear O. oenanthe 6 81 102
Pied Wheatear O. pleschanka 1 - 37
Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus 2 - 31
Basra Reed Warbler A. griseldis 108 260 652
Marsh Warbler A. palustris 3185 178 26595
Sedge Warbler A. schoenobaenus 1 ~ 79
Reed Warbler A. scirpaceus 3 61 68
Upcher’s Warbler Hippolais languida 16 77 288
Olive-tree Warbler H. olivetorum 6 26 S12
Olivaceous Warbler H. pallida 16 63 347
River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis 202 105 2719
Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 41 42 1312
Garden Warbler Sylvia borin 28 80 490
Whitethroat S. communis 1047 70 20499
Barred Warbler S. nisoria 26 69 523
Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 12 24 655
Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis 1 ~ 20
Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio A 12 788
Red-tailed Shrike L. isabellinus 15 31 657
Number of species 29 - 29
Total ringed 6253 73959
* 1985/86 season—but no ringing done in January or February 1986
** The autumn 1985 total expressed as a percentage of the mean of the 13 years
1972/73 to 1985/86 for each species.
Footnote to Table 1 continued opposite on p. 160
162 East African Bird Report 1985
caught in good numbers. Whitethroats were well down but Basra Reed and River
Warblers were more plentiful than average. Numbers of ‘minor’ species were general-
ly low, as can be seen from the percentages in Table 1. Two exceptions: were the
Irania (114 ringed) and the Palaearctic Scops Owl. One Scops Owl was caught on
each of the last three nights, all three being in identical net positions; there are only
two previous ringing records for the Lodge.
We have remarked before on the minute numbers of Afrotropical ‘species
encountered at Ngulia at night (Backhurst & Pearson 1977); only the Harlequin
Quail Coturnix delegourguei and some nightjars Caprimulgus spp. being regular in
any numbers. This year three interesting Afrotropical birds were caught on a single
night, 9/10 December. An African Water Rail Rallus caerulescens and a Violet-
tipped Courser Rhinoptilus chalcopterus, both new records for Ngulia, were picked
up unharmed inside the Lodge by nightwatchman Darius, and the second Yellowbill
Ceuthmochares aereus ever was netted just after midnight.
A Marsh Warbler ringed as an adult on the bush just south of the Lodge on°21
December 1984 was retrapped at night on 12 December and a female Red-tailed
Shrike, originally ringed as a first-winter bird on 4 December 1983, was caught in
the bush again on 12th this year.
Acknowledgements
We thank the Warden of Tsavo National Park (West) for permission to ring birds in
the Park, the management of Ngulia Safari Lodge and African Tours and Hotels Ltd
for assistance with accomodation and help in other ways. For help during catching
and ringing we are most grateful to Anna Forbes-Watson and to the following:
Daphne Backhurst, Andil and Bernard Boothroyd, Jo Darlington, Cecilia Gichuki,
Ken and Lynn Kaufman, Kurt Leuschner, Claire and Maggie Pearson, Tony
Potterton and Don Turner.
Thanks go to the Bird Migration Fund of the EANHS for some financial
assistance, including for the purchase of the 1 kW light.
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G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi and D.J. Pearson, Department of wade
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi, Kenya
Scopus 9 (5): 159-162, June 1987
East African Bird Report 1985 163
Individual Subscribers to Scopus
All subscribers are in Kenya unless otherwise stated
Alexander, F. P.O. Box 46427, Nairobi.
Allan, R.G. P.O. Box 24607, Nairobi.
Allen, P.M. P.O. Box 14166, Nairobi.
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Baker, N.E. P.O. Box 5272, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Bartlett, K. P.O. Box 2561, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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Beesley, J.S. 3 Stafford Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 4RB, pnelane:
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Bhatia, Z. Ivy Cottage, Insh, Kingussie, Inverness-shire PH21 INT, Scotland.
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India.
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164 East African Bird Report 1985
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Fuggles-Couchman, R. Post House, High Street, Broughton, Stockbridge,
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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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England.
Lamm, D. 6772 East Nasumpta Drive, Tuscon, AZ 85715, U.S.A.
Lamprey, H. P.O. Box 21472, Nairobi.
Lapham, H. 241 Drake Road, Lansing, NY 14882, U.S.A.
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Leyser, E. de P.O. Box 2555, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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England.
166 East African Bird Report 1985
Loetscher, F. 2064 Cardinal Drive, Danville, KY 40422, U.S.A.
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Mascher, J.W. Rontgenavd, Lasarettet, S-891 02 Ornskoldsvik, Sweden.
Masterson, B. P.O. Box 2093, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Meadows, B.S. Amartech Ltd., P.O. Box 30227, Yanbu Al-Sinaiyah, Saudi Arabia.
Mercer, G. P.O. Box 2651, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Meyburg, B.U. HerberstraBe 14, D-1000 Berlin 33, West Germany.
Miersch, U. P.O. Box 46855, Nairobi.
Miskell, J. CARE, c/o UNHCR, P.O. Box 2925, Mogadishu, Somalia.
Mordue, T. P.O. Box 43233, Nairobi.
Morel, G.J. ORSTOM, B.P. 24, Richard Toll, Senegal.
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Pomeroy, D.E. Department of Zoology, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062
Kampala, Uganda.
Raynor, E.M. Nash Meadow, South Wamborough, Basingstoke, Hampshire,
England.
Redman, N. 1 Westfields, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 3DZ, England.
Reid, G. P.O. Box 24481, Nairobi.
Reynolds, J.F. 35 Foxcroft Drive, Rastrick, Brighouse, West Yorkshire HD6 3PQ,
England.
Richards, D.K. P.O. Box 24545, Nairobi.
Roberston, I. Easthouse, S. Whiteness, Shetland ZE2 9LL, U.K.
Russell, W. P.O. Box 31930, Tuscon, AZ 85751, U.S.A.
East African Bird Report 1985 167
Ryall, C. P.O. Box 88692, Mombasa.
Sayer, P. P.O. Box 14660, Nairobi.
Schifter, H. Natural History Museum, Postfach 417, A-1014 Wien, Austria.
Schulze-Hagen, K. BleidegrabenstraBe 3, D-4050 Monchengladbach, West Germany.
Schwab, L.T.- P.O. Box 2273, Blantyre, Malawi.
Short, L.L. Department of Ormithology, American Museum of Natural History,
Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024, U.S.A.
Silvester, J.D.M. P.O. Box 30333, Nairobi.
Sinclair, M. P.O. Box 30158, Nairobi.
Sion, E. P.O. Box 179, Mbeya, Tanzania.
Skinner, N.J. Department of Physics, University College, Private Bag 002,
- Gaborone, Botswana.
Skorupa, J.P. Department of Anthropology, University of California, Davis, CA
95616, U.S.A.
Smalley, M. P.O. Box 30772, Nairobi.
Smeenk, C. Roodborststraat 16, 2333 VP Leiden, Netherlands.
Smith, D.W. P.T. Tatar Anyar, Jalan Hang Jebat viii/87, Jakarta Selatan,
Indonesia.
Spoerry, A. P.O. Box 30125, Nairobi.
Squelch, P. P.O. Box 24220, Nairobi.
Stanfield, J.P. P.O. Box 30125, Nairobi.
Steinbacher, J. KinzigstraBe 47, D-6380 Bad Homberg, West Germany.
Stevenson, T. c/o Lake Baringo Club, P.O. Box 47557, Nairobi.
Stretton, S. Buffels Fontein, P.O. Box 53, Molteno 5500, South Africa.
Stuart, S.N. SSC-TUCN, Avenue du Mont Blanc, CH-1196 Gland, Switzerland.
Tanner, R.F. P.O. Box 50381, Nairobi.
Tarboton, W. P.O. Box 327, Nylstroom, Transvaal 0510, South Africa.
Taylor, P.B. c/o 33 Boniface Gardens, Harrow, Middlesex HA3 6PH, England.
Thiede, W. Ander Ronne 184, D-5000 K6lIn, West Germany.
Thiollay, JM. Laboratoire Zoologie, Ecole Normale Supérieure, 46 Rue d’Ulm,
75230 Paris Cedex, France.
Traylor, M. Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lake Shore
Drive, Chicago, IL 60605, U.S.A.
Tucker, E. 5 Deal Castle Road, Deal, Kent CT14 7BB, England.
Turner, D.A. P.O. Box 48019, Nairobi.
Tyler, S. Yew Tree Cottage, Lone Lane, Penallt, Gwent, Wales.
Urban, E.K. Department of Biology, Augusta College, Augusta, GA 30910,
U.S.A.
Vande wegh, J-P. P.O. Box 931, Kigali, Rwanda.
Verweil, M. P.O. Box 15, Thika.
Visagie, L. P.O. Box 24578, Nairobi.
Wallace, S. 1088 El Solyo Avenue, Campbell CA 95008, U.S.A.
168 East African Bird Report 1985
Walton, R.K. 30 Field’s Court, Warwick CV34 SHP, England.
Walker, J.B. 53 Buffels Road, Pretoria 0110, South Africa.
Watson, R. P.O. Box 24251, Nairobi.
Weenen, H. Department of Chemistry, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box
35061, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Weinberger, M. New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, U.S.A.
Widstrand, S. Doppingvagen 6c, 2tr s-222 35 Lund, Sweden.
Wilkinson, R. 2 Weston Grove, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1QJ, England.
Wolf, D. P.O. Box 2314, Nacogdoches, TX 75963, U.S.A.
Woodcock, M. The Fives, Elderden Farm, near Staplehurst, Tonbridge, Kent,
England.
Wooton, R.C. P.O. Box 46143, Nairobi.
Zibbarras, G. P.O. Box 21231, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Zimmerman, D. 1011 West Florence Street, Silver City, NM 88061, U.S.A.
Zink, G. Vogelwarte Radolfzell, D-7760 Schlo8 Méggignen, West Germany.
Institutional Subscribers
Alexander Koenig Zoological Museum, Adenauerallee 150-164, D-5300 Bonn 1,
West Germany.
American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York,
NY 10024, U.S.A.
Biomedical Library, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90024, U.S.A.
British Trust for Ornithology, Beech Grove, Station Road, Tring, Hertfordshire
HP23 SNR, England.
California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA 94118,
U.S.A.
Comell Laboratory of Omithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, NY 14850,
U.S.A.
C.S.LR.O. Division of Wildlife, P.O. Box 84, Lyneham, Canberra, Australia.
Department of Zoology, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
Department of Zoology, University of Lund, $-223 62 Lund, Sweden.
D.S.LR. Ecology Division, Private Bag, Lower Hutt, New Zealand.
Durban Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa.
Edward Grey Institute of Field Omithology, Department of Zoology, South Parks
Road, Oxford OX1 3PS, England.
Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL
60605, U.S.A.
General Library, British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Cromwell Road, London SW7 SBD,
Engiand.
Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Rue Vautier 31, B-1040
Bruxelles, Belgium.
East African Bird Report 1985 169
Instituto National Para la Conservacion de la Naturaleza, Gran Via de San Francisco
35-41, Madrid 5, Spain.
Koninklijk Museum voor Midden Africa, Steenweg op Leuven 13, B-1980 Tervuren,
Belgium. ;
Laboratoire de Zoologie, 46 Rue d’Ulm, 75230 Paris Cedex 05, France.
Library of Congress, P.O. Box 30598, Nairobi.
Louisiana State Univesity, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, U.S.A.
Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1048, U.S.A.
Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138,
U.S.A.
Museums of Malawi, P.O. Box 30360, Blantyre, Malawi.
Natural History Museum, Postfach 417, A-1014 Wien 1, Austria.
National Museum, P.O. Box 240, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
National Museum, P.O. Box 266, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa.
National Museums of Kenya, P.O. Box 40658, Nairobi.
Peabody Museum of Natural History, Yale University, P.O. Box 6666, New Haven,
CT 06511, U.S.A.
Rijksmuseum van Natuurlijke Historie, Postbus 9517, 2300 RA Leiden,
Netherlands.
Royal Australian Ornithologists’ Union, 21 Gladstone Street, Moonee Ponds,
Victoria 3039, Australia.
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, England.
Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC 20560, U.S.A.
Société Ornithologique de France, 55 Rue de Buffon, 75005 Paris, France.
Southern African Omithological Society, Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African
Ornithology, University of Cape Town, P.O. Rondebosch, Cape Town, South
Africa.
Staatliches Museum fiir Naturkunde, SchloB Rosenstein, Postfach 142, D-7000
Stuttgart 1, West Germany.
Stavanger Museum, N-4000 Stavanger, Norway.
Transvaal Museum, P.O. Box 413, Pretoria 0001, South Africa.
University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, U.S.A.
University of East Africa, P.O. Box 2500, Eldoret.
Vogelwarte Radolfzell, D-7760 SchloB Méggingen, West Germany.
VSO Office Tanzania, P.O. Box 9200, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Zoological State Museum, MiinchhausenstraBe 21, D-8000 Miinchen 60, West
Germany.
Exchanges with Scopus
Alauda, Anzeiger der Ornithologischen Gesellschaft in Bayern, Ardea, Arnoldia, Auk,
Babbler, Birds, Dutch Birding, Ecologia, Emu, Honeyguide, Irish Birds, Journal fiir
Ornithologie, Le Gerfaut, L’ Oiseau, Living Bird, Malimbus, Okologie der Végel,
Sandgrouse, The Ring, and Wildlife Review.
170 East African Bird Report 1985
List of observers
contributing to the systematic list and the first and last dates section
F. Alexander
P.G. Appleton
A.L. Archer
J.S. Ash
D.E.G. Backhurst
G.C. Backhurst
N.E. Baker
J.S. Barclay
A.J. Beakbane
B. Boothroyd
N. Bowman
D.C. Brougham
A.E. Butterworth
M.J. Carswell
A.D. Clifford
M.A.C. Coverdale
L.L. Didham
L.D.C. Fishpool
C.J. Frere
I.J. Ferguson-Lees
M. Hemphill
P, Hemphill
A.D. Lewis
E. Leyser
B. Monroe
D.C. Moyer
F, Ng’ weno
D.J. Pearson
A. Petersen
P. Peterson |
A. Potterton
A.M. Pratt
N. Redman
F.Reid
G. Reid
D.K. Richards
I. Robertson
W. Russell
C. Ryall
E. Sion
P. Squelch
R. Stjernstedt
R.J. Tatchell
D.A. Turner
D.E. Wolf
P. Wootton
Index to authors
Archer, A.L. Protective behaviour in a nestling Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus
solitarius 52
Ash, J.S. Midwinter observations from Djibouti 43
Ash, J.S. Two additions to the Somali list: Great Frigatebird Fregata minor and
Indian House Crow Corvus splendens 108
Ash, J.S. Birds, including a hybrid, new to Uganda 133
[Backhurst, G.C.] Editorial 1g
Backhurst, G.C. Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti in Kenya 140
Backhurst, G.C. Reviews: Southern birds; Proceedings of the Second Symposium
on African Predatory birds; Birds of Chembe 55
Backhurst, G.C. Reviews: Threatened birds of Africa and related islands;
Proceedings of the Fifth Pan African Ornithological Congress 115 9
Backhurst, G.C. & Pearson, D.J. Ringing and migration at Ngulia, Tsavo,
autumn 1985 160
East African Bird Report 1985 171
Baker, N.E. Ground nesting of Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos 50
Bennun, L.A. The Spotted Ground Thrush Turdus fischeri fischeri at Gede in
coastal Kenya 97
Bennun, L.A. Notes on behaviour and plumage dimorphisim in Lagden’s Bush
Shrike Malaconotus lagdeni 111
Britton, P. & Britton, H. Shoebill Balaeniceps rex: a deletion from the Kenya
avifauna 50
Clarke, G. Bird observations from northwest Somalia . 24
Clarke, G. Leucistic Somali birds 54
Fuggles-Couchman, N.R. Addenda to The distribution of, and other notes on,
some birds of Tanzania—Part II (continued) 49
Grant, L. A record of the Lesser Frigatebird Fregata ariel from Kenya 110
Jensen, F.P., Brogger-Jensen, S. & Petersen, G. The White-chested Alethe Alethe
fuelleborni in Tanzania 127
Lack, P. The ecology of the land-birds of Tsavo East National Park, Kenya De ST
Miskell, J.E. & Ash, J.S. Gillett’s Lark Mirafra gilletti new to Kenya a8)
Pearson, DJ. General Review 145
Short, L.L. Obituary: Jean Delacour 143
Short, L.L. & Home, J.F.M. Notes on some birds of the Arabuko-Sokoke
Forest 117
Short, L.L. & Horne, J.F.M. Notes on some birds of Ol Ari Nyiro, Laikipia
plateau 137
Turner, D.A. Letter: On the claimed occurrence of the Spike-heeled Lark
Chersomanes albofasciata in Kenya 142
172 East African Bird Report 1985
INDEX
of scientific names, Vol. 9, 1-5
Accipiter badius 27, 46 Apus aequatorialis 89
minullus 148 affinis 32, 46, 88
nisus 46, 145, 154 apus 89, 157
ovampensis 148 berliozi 151
Actitis hypoleucos 30, 44 caffer 89
Acrocephalus arundinaceus 47, 76, 159, horus 151
161 melba 32, 89
baeticatus 35, 36 nianzae 89
gracilirostris 76 pallidus 46
griseldis 75, 157, 159-162 Aquila heliaca 46
palustris 11, 73-75, 145, 156, nipalensis 27, 46
159-162 pomarina 145, 154
schoenobaenus 75, 159, 161 rapax 28, 44
scirpaceus 76, 159, 161 verreauxi 46
stentoreus 36 Ardea cinerea 26, 43
Acrylium vulturinum 9 goliath 43
Alaemon alaudipes 47 Ardeola idae 147
Alethe fuelleborni 127-131 rufiventris 147
Amadina fasciata 13, 19, 40, 87 Arenaria interpres 30, 44, 156
Ammomanes deserti 47 Athene noctua 31, 32
Anaplectes rubriceps 13, 18, 85 Aviceda cuculoides 148
Anas acuta 154 Aythya fuligula 154
clypeata 27, 154 nyroca 154
crecca 27, 154 Balaeniceps rex 50
penelope 154 Batis minor 12, 17, 76, 77
querquedula 27, 154 molitor 12, 17, 76, 77
sparsa 148 orientalis 37, 47
Andropadus importunus 11, 16, 69, 70 perkeo 12, 17, 76, 77
Anomalospiza imberbis 87, 153 Bias musicus 145, 152
Anthreptes collaris 13, 18, 83, 84, 140 Bradornis microrhynchus 12, 17, 37, 76
orientalis 13, 18, 39, 83, 84 pallidus 77
platurus 47 Bubalomis niger 13, 40, 85
Anthus campestris 37, 47 Bubo africanus 32, 89
cervinus 37, 47, 77, 158, 159 lacteus 32, 89
leucophrys 77 Bubulcus ibis 26, 46
novaeseelandiae 47, 77 Bucorvus abyssinicus 33
similis 47 cafer 64
trivialis 47, 77, 159, 161 Bulweria fallax 145, 147
vaalensis 152 Buphagus africanus 83
Apalis flavida 12, 16, 36, 73-75 erythrorhynchus 13, 18, 39, 47, 82,
thoracica 49 83
Apaloderma narina 32 Burhinus capensis 9, 10, 14, 30, 46
oedicnemus 156
Butastur rufipennis 28, 148
Buteo augur 28
buteo 46, 154
tufinus 46
tachardus 148
Butorides striatus 26, 46
Bycanistes brevis 64, 138
Calidris alba 44, 156, 158
alpina 30, 46
ferruginea 44
minuta 44
subminuta 145, 156
temminckii 156
Camaroptera brachyura 36, 47, 49, 76
simplex 12, 16, 36, 72-75
Campephaga flava 11, 16, 69, 140
Campethera nubica 11, 15, 33, 47, 65,
66
Caprimulgus spp. 162
clarus 89, 135
donaldsoni 89, 150
europaeus 89, 157, 159, 161
fossii 89
fraenatus 89, 135, 150
inomatus 46, 89, 135
nubicus 32, 46, 89, 150
tristiigma 89
Centropus grillii 150
superciliosus 10, 14, 22, 31
Cercomela familiaris 72
melanura 47
Cercotrichas galactotes 11, 16, 34, 35,
47, 70, 71, 159, 161
hartlaubi 152
leucophrys 11, 16, 70
podobe 47
quadrivirgata 72, 100_102, 123, 124
Ceryle rudis 32
Ceuthmochares aereus 22, 150, 162
Charadrius alexandrinus 44, 155
asiaticus 10, 14, 19, 29, 155
dubius 29, 46, 155, 158
hiaticula 44
leschenaultii 44, 155
East African Bird Report 1985 173
mongolus 44, 155
tricollaris 29
Chelictinia riocourii 28, 148
Chersomanes albofasciata 142
Chlidonias hybridus 150
leucopterus 30, 46, 133
Chlorocichla flaviventris 70
Chloropeta gracilirostris 152
Chrysococcyx caprius 10, 14, 22, 23,
S137
cupreus 22, 137
klaas 22, 137
Cichladusa guttata 70, 71
Ciconia abdimii 26, 46, 80
ciconia 80, 154
episcopus. 147
nigra 154
Cinnyricinclus leucogaster 12, 17, 39,
47, 80, 139
sharpii 153
Circaetus fasciolatus 117
gallicus 27, 46, 154
Circus spp. 27
aeruginosus 46
macrourus 27, 46
pygargus 27, 46
Cisticola aridula 12, 17, 73
chiniana 76
cinereola 12, 17, 73
galactotes 76
nana 42°17 -73; 75
Clamator glandarius 10, 14, 22, 31, 150
jacobinus 10, 14 22, 23, 137, 150
levaillantii 137, 150
Colius leucocephalus 23
striatus 10, 14, 23
Columba arquatrix 46
guinea 21, 31, 46
livia 31
Coracias spp. 71
abyssinicus 151
caudatus 10, 15, 33, 60, 61
garrulus 10, 15, 33, 60, 61, 145,
159-161
naevia 10, 15, 60, 61
174 East African Bird Report 1985
Corvus alba 34, 69
albicollis 69
capensis 34
rhipidurus 34, 47
tuficollis 34, 47
splendens 69, 108, 109, 123
Corythaixoides leucogaster 10, 14, 22,
31
Cosmosparus regius 12, 18, 39, 83
Cossypha caffra 52, 53
heuglini 72, 140
natalensis 29, 100-102
Coturnix chinensis 148
cotumix 29
delegourguei 9, 10, 14, 162
Creatophora cinerea 12, 17, 39, 82
Crex crex 160
egregia 149
Cuculus canorus 23, 31, 156, 159, 160
canorus/gularis 10, 14
clamosus 22, 31, 137
gularis 23, 31, 150
poliocephalus 156, 160
solitarius 22, 52, 53, 137, 150
Cursorius cursor 19, 30
temminckii 9
Cypsiurus parvus 46, 89, 119
Delichon urbica 159
D. urbica x Hirundo rustica 135, 136
Dendrocygna viduata 148
Dendropicos fuscescens 11, 15, 33, 47,
65, 66, 140
stierlingi 151
Dicrurus adsimilis 11, 16, 34, 47, 68,
123, 125
Dinemellia dinemelli 13, 40, 85
Diomedea melanophrys 147
Dromas ardeola 46
Dryocichloides poliopterus 152
Dryoscopus cubla 12, 17, 78
gambensis 38
pringlii 78, 153
Egretta alba 26
ardesiaca 147
garzetta 26, 46
gularis 26, 43, 147
Elanus caeruleus 28
Emberiza hortulana 41
poliopleura 13, 19, 41, 88, 140
striolata 41, 47
tahapisi 47, -88
Eremomela flavicrissalis 12, 17, 73
scotops 152
Eremopterix spp. 66
leucopareia 68
leucotis 11, 15, 67, 68
nigriceps 33, 47
signata 11, 15, 33, 67, 68
Erythrocercus holochlorus 125
Euplectes albonotatus 13, 18, 86
diadematus 13, 18, 86, 153
franciscanus 40
hordeaceus 87
nigroventris 86
Eupodotis hartlaubi 9
humilis 29
ruficrista 9, 10, 14
senegalensis 9, 10, 14
Eurocephalus rueppelli 12, 39, 79-81
Eurystomus glaucurus 10, 14, 60
Falco amurensis 145, 155
ardosiaceus 148
biarmicus 28, 44
cherrug 155
concolor 28, 46, 155
cuvieri 148
dickinsoni 145, 148
eleonorae 160
naumanni 28, 46
peregrinus 28
tupicoloides 28, 148
subbuteo
tinnunculus 28, 29, 46, 80
Ficedula albicollis 158
Francolinus hildebrandti 9
leucoscepus 8, 10, 14
levaillantii 148
ochropectus 46
sephaena 8, 10, 14, 29
Fregata sp. 147
ariel 109, 110
minor 108, 109
Galerida cristata 33, 47
fremantlii 33
malabarica 33
Gallinago gallinago 30, 156
media 160
Gallinula chloropus 29
Gelochelidon nilotica 45
Glareola nuchalis 145, 149
ocularis 149, 150
pratincola 30
Glaucidium perlatum 32, 89
Guttera pucherani 9
Gypaetus barbatus 148
‘Gypohierax angolensis 148
Gyps rueppellii 27
Haematopus ostralegus 29, 44, 155
Halcyon albiventris 58, 120
chelicuti 10, 14, 57, 120
leucocephala 10, 14, 32, 57
Heliolais erythroptera 152
Hieraaetus pennatus 46, 154
spilogaster 28, 46
Himantopus himantopus 30, 146, 149
Hippolais icterina 158, 160
languida 11, 16, 36, 73-75, 159, 161
olivetorum 76, 157, 159, 161
pallida 11, 16, 45, 73-75, 157, 159,
161
Hirundo abyssinica 89
aethiopica 34
atrocaerulea 151
daurica 89
fuligula 34, 47, 89
rustica 34, 47, 88, 89, 135, 161
rustica X Delichon urbica 135-136
Hyliota flavigaster 152
Hypargos niveoguttatus 87
Indicator indicator 11, 15, 33, 65, 138
meliphilus 138
minor 11, 15, 65, 138
variegatus 65, 138
Irania gutturalis 11, 16, 35, 47, 70, 71,
157, 159, 161, 162
East African Bird Report 1985 175
Ispidina picta 58
Ixobrychus minutus 26, 147, 160
sturmii 147
Lagonosticta sp. 87
senegala 47
Lamprotornis chalybaeus 12, 17, 39, 82,
124, 125
morio 12, 18
purpuropterus 12, 18, 80
Laniarius ferrugineus 38, 47, 78
funebris 12, 17, 38, 78
mufumbiri 50
Tuficeps 79, 153
Lanius cabanisi 12, 17, 80, 81
collurio 12, 17, 38, 79-81, 145, 159,
161
collurio x isabellinus 160
dorsalis 12, 17, 80, 81
excubitor 38, 47 ,
isabellinus 12, 17, 38, 47, 79-81,
159, 161, 162
minor 12, 17, 38, 79-81, 159
nubicus 38
somalicus 39, 47
souzae 153
Larus argentatus 30, 45, 156
dominicanus 158
fuscus 45
genei 156
hemprichii 45
ichthyaetus 156
leucophthalmus 45
ridibundus 30, 45, 156
Leptoptlos crumeniferus 26, 69
Limicola falcinellus 44
Limosa lapponica 44
limosa 156
Locustella fluviatilis 76, 145, 157, 159,
161, 162
luscinioides 160
Lonchura cucullata 87
fringilloides 153, 154
griseicapilla 13, 19, 87
malabarica 40, 47, 87
Luscinia luscinia 11, 16, 70, 71, 145,
176 East African Bird Report 1985
157, 159-161
megarhynchos 72, 159, 161
Lybius lacrymosus 11, 15, 65
leucocephalus 65
leucomelas 65
melanocephalus 11, 15, 46, 65
melanopterus 11, 15, 65
torquatus 65
Macheiramphus alcinus 148
Macrodipteryx vexillarius 135
Macronyx aurantigula 12, 17, 77
Malaconotus alius 112
blanchoti 12, 17, 78
cruentus 112
gladiator 112
lagdeni 111-113
multicolor 112
nigrifrons 112
olivaceus 112, 113
quadricolor 79
sulfureopectus 78, 112
Melaenornis pammelaina 77
Melierax gabar 28
poliopterus 28
Merops albicollis 10, 15, 46, 58, 59
apiaster 10, 15, 46, 58, 159
hirundineus 151
nubicus 32, 60, 151
persicus 46, 58, 159
pusillus 10, 15, 32, 58, 59
revoillii 10, 15, 32, 58, 59
superciliosus 10, 15, 32, 46, 58, 59
Microparra capensis 149
Milvus migrans 28, 44, 69
Mirafra africana 54, 55
cantillans 11, 15, 66, 67
degodiensis 54
gilletti 34, 53, 54
hypermetra 11, 15, 66, 67
nigricans 151
poecilosterna 11, 16, 66, 67
pulpa 11, 16, 66, 67
rufocinnamomea 68
Monticola angolensis 152
rufocinerea 35
saxatilis 11, 16, 35, 47, 70, 157,
159, 161
solitaria 47
Motacilla aguimp 77
alba 37, 45
cinerea 37, 47, 77, 159
flava 37, 38, 45, 77, 159, 160
Muscicapa caerulescens 77, 152
gambagae 152
striata 12, 37, 47, 76, 159, 161
Mycteria ibis 26
Myioparus plumbaeus 77, 152
Myopornis boehmi 152
Neafrapus boehmi 89, 119, 120
Nectarinia amethestina 13, 18, 84
bifasciata 13, 18, 84, 85
habessinica 39, 47
hunteri 13, 18, 39, 84
kilimensis 85
mariquensis 39, 84
nectarinioides 84, 85
olivacea 84
pulchella 84
venusta 84, 85
Neocossyphus rufus 72, 131
Neophron monachus 27
percnopterus 27, 44
rueppelli 46
Neotis denhami 149
heuglini 9, 29
Nettapus auritus 148
Nicator chloris 70, 102, 151, 160
Nilaus afer 12, 17, 38, 78
Numenius arquata 30, 44, 155
phaeopus 44
Numida meleagris 8, 10, 14, 29
Oceanites oceanicus 147
Oena capensis 10, 14, 20, 46
Oenanthe bottae 47
deserti 35, 140, 141, 158
hispanica 47 .
isabellina 11, 16, 35, 45, 71, 72,
140, 141, 159, 161
leucopyga 47
monacha 47
oenanthe 11, 16, 35, 71, 72, 145,
157, 159, 161
phillipsi 35
pileata 11, 16, 70, 71
pleschanka 11, 16, 35, 47, 71, 72,
140, 159, 161
Onychognathus blythi 39, 47
morio 80
Oriolus auratus 69
larvatus 11, 16, 68, 69
oriolus 11, 16, 34, 47, 68, 69, 145,
160
Ortygospiza atricollis 87
Ortyxelos meiffreni 9, 10, 14
Otis arabs 29, 46
kori 9, 29, 149
Otus leucotis 89
scops 46, 89, 156, 157, 161, 162
Pachycoccyx audeberti 118, 119
Pandion haliaetus 28, 44
Parisoma boehmi 36, 75
Parus afer 11, 16, 69
albiventris 69
leucomelas 151
Passer castanopterus 40
domesticus 153
euchlorus 40, 45, 46
griseus 13, 47, 85
motitensis 40
Pelecanus onocrotalus 26
rufescens 46
: Pemis apivorus 155
' Petronia pyrgita 13, 85, 139
Phaethon lepturus 147
Phalaropus lobatus 156
Philomachus pugnax 30
Phoeniconaias minor 26, 27, 148
Phoenicopterus ruber 26, 46, 145
Phoeniculus cyanomelas 62
granti 62
minor 10, 15, 61, 62
purpureus 10, 15, 33, 61, 62
Phoenicurus ochrurus 35, 47
phoenicurus 47, 157, 160
Phyllastrephus strepitans 11, 16, 69, 70
East African Bird Report 1985 177
Phyllolais pulchella 75
Phylloscopus spp. 36
laurae 145, 152
ruficapilla 152
sibilatrix 47, 160
trochilus 12, 16, 36, 47, 73-75, 159,
161
umbrovirens 36, 47
Picoides obsoletus 151
Pitta angolensis 104, 151
Platalea leucorodia 26, 43, 44
Plocepasser mahali 13, 18, 85
Ploceus cucullatus 13, 18, 86
galbula 40, 45, 47
golandi 125, 126, 153
heuglini 153
insignis 125
intermedius 13, 18, 40, 86
nigricollis 13, 18, 85
ocularis 87
oliveiceps 153
rubiginosus 13, 18, 86
spekei 40
subaureus 86
velatus 87
Pluvialis dominica 44, 46, 145, 155
squatarola 30, 44, 155
Podica senegalensis 149
Podiceps nigricollis 146
Pogoniulus bilineatus 65
chrysoconus 151
pusillus 11, 15, 33, 65
Poicephalus rufiventris 10, 14, 21, 22,
31
Polemaetus bellicosus 28
Polihierax semitorquatus 29, 90
Porphryio porphryio 149
Porzana parva 29
porzana 155, 160
Prinia gracilis 36, 45
somalica 76
subflava 76
Prionops plumata 12, 17, 39, 80, 82
retzii2, I, 805 82, 122,123,125;
153
178 East African Bird Report 1985
scopifrons 119-122, 125
Prodotiscus regulus 138
zambesiae 138
Psalidoprocne pristoptera 139
Pseudonigrita arnaudi 87
cabanisi 13, 18, 87
Psittacula kramen 45
Pterocles decoratus 10, 14, 19
exustus 10, 14, 21, 31
lichtensteini 46
namaqua 20
quadricinctus 137
senegallus 31, 46
Ptilopachus petrosus 149
Puffinus lherminieri 147
Pycnonotus barbatus 11, 16, 34, 45, 54,
55;169570; 125
Pyrenestes minor 153
Pytilia afra 87, 153
melba
Quelea quelea 13, 18, 86
Rallus caerulescens 149, 162
Recurvirostra avosetta 149
Remiz musculus 34, 69
Rhinoptilus africanus 19, 30
chalcopterus 19, 149, 162
cinctus 9, 10, 14
Rhodophoneus cruentus 12, 17, 47, 49,
78
Riparia cincta 89
riparia 89, 159, 160
Rynchops fiavirostis 150
Sagittartius serpentarius 27
Sarkidiornis melanotos 144
Sarothrura boehmi 149
rufa 149
Saxicola rubetra 35, 72, 157, 160
torquata 47
Scotopelia peli 150
Serinus atrogularis 13, 19, 47, 88
donaldsoni 41, 88
dorsostriatus 41, 88
koliensis 154
mennelli 154
mozambicus 88
reichardi 139, 140, 154
Speculipastor bicolor 12, 18, 80
Spiloptera rufifrons 12, 17, 36, 47, 73,
1S .
Spreo albicapillus 39
fischeri 12, 18, 83
hildebrandti 12, 18, 80
shelleyi 13, 18, 39, 82, 153
superbus 13, 18, 39, 83
Stercorarius pomarinus 46
Sterna albifrons 45, 150
anaethetus 150
bengalensis 31, 44, 150
bergii 45 7
caspia 45
fuscata 46
hirundo 133, 156, 158
repressa 45, 150
sandvicensis 45
Streptopelia capicola 10, 14, 20, 21, 118
decipiens 21, 31
roseogrisea 46
semitorquata 10, 14, 20, 31
senegalensis 10, 14, 20, 21, 31, 46
turtur 133-135
Struthio camelus 8, 26
Sula dactylatra 147
leucogaster 46, 147
Sylvia atricapilla 36, 37, 47, 159, 160
borin 12, 16, 47, 75, 159, 161
communis 12, 16, 37, 47, 73-75,
145, 159-162
curruca 37
mystacea 37
nana 37
nisoria 12, 16, 47, 73, 157, 159, 161
rueppelli 47
Sylvietta brachyura 12, 17, 37, 47, 72,
1S
isabellinus 37, 75, 152
Tachybaptus ruficollis 26
Tauraco porphyreolophus 22
Tchagra australis 78
jamesi 12, 17, 38, 78
senegala 12, 17, 47, 78
Telacanthura ussheri 89, 119
Terathopius ecaudatus 27, 117, 118
Terpsiphone viridis 12, 17, 37, 47, 76
Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris 72
Threskiornis aethiopica 26, 46
Thripias namaquus 11, 15, 65, 66
Tmetothylacus tenellus 12, 17, 77, 152
Tockus spp. 90
alboterminatus 64
deckeni 11, 15, 63, 64
erythrorhynchus 11, 15, 33, 62-64
flavirostris 11, 15, 33, 46, 62, 64
~ hemprichii 46, 138, 151
nasutus 10, 15, 62, 64
Trachyphonus spp. 64
darnaudii 11, 15, 65
erythrocephalus 11, 15, 33, 65
margaritatus 33, 46
Treron australis 21
waalia 31, 46
Trigonoceps occipitalis 27
Tringa erythropus 156, 158
glareola 30, 46
ochropus 46
nebularia 44, 56
solitaria 158
stagnatilis 30
totanus 44, 156
Turdoides aylmeri 11, 16, 34, 69
Index compiled by Graeme Backhurst
Notes
East African Bird Report 1985 179
hindei 151
rubiginosus 11, 16, 34, 69
Turdus spp. 35
abyssinicus 35
fischeri 97-107, 152
philomelos 47
tephronotus 11, 16, 70
Tumix sylvatica 9, 149
Turtur chalcospilos 10, 14, 20, 50, 51
tympanistria 21
Tyto alba 89
Upupa epops 10, 15, 33, 46, 61, 157
Uraeginthus bengalus 13, 19, 87
cyanocephalus 87
ianthinogaster 13, 19, 87
Urocolius macrourus 10, 14, 23
Vanellus coronatus 10, 13, 14, 19, 30
lugubris 19
tectus 10, 13, 14, 19
Vidua fischeri 87
hypocherina 40, 87, 153
macrourus 13, 18, 86
obtusa 153
paradisaea 13, 18, 40, 87
Xenus cinereus 46, 156
Zosterops spp. 140
abyssinicus 13, 18, 40, 47, 85
180 East African Bird Report 1985
Notes
form used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case
of books, the town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of
works which are cited frequently should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s)
of the author(s) and date(s) of the publication should be given in the text in the
normal way.
Authors of “papers’ receive five copies of their contribution free of charge. Extra
copies, which will be supplied at cost, must be ordered when the MS is submitted.
All contributrons should be sent to the Editor, G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi,
Kenya, and they will be acknowledged.
Works which should not be listed under ‘References’
BACKHURS?T, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common
Palaearctic migrant birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural
History Society and National Museum. 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al. 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, RJ., & IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971.
The birds of Zambia. London: Collins, = Benson et al. 1971.
BRITTON, P.L. (ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa. Nairobi: EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds.
Nairobi: EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa, Vol. I.
London and New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al. 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African passerine
birds. London: British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate, 3
vols. London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 and 1960. African handbook of
birds. Series 1, vols 1 and 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa, 2nd
edition. London: Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957
and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands. London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1966.
MOREAU, R.E. 1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems. London:
Academic Press, = Moreau 19772.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African non-passerine birds.
London: British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
URBAN, E.K., FRY, C.H. & KEITH, S. 1986. The birds of Africa, Vol. I. London:
Academic Press, = Urban et al. 1986.
East African Bird Report
This normally forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar
year and relates just to the birds of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Records of Afro-
tropical and Oceanic birds should be sent to D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
Palaearctic bird records should be sent to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Bio-
chemistry, University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in
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mission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement, June 1982, and
copies may be obtained from D.A. Turmer. Records of rare birds are vetted by the
independent and internationally-based East African Rarities Committee.
IC12 AMREF
Scopus 9 (5), 1987
Contents
D.J. Pearson. General Review | 3 145
Species Report
Afrotropical and Oceanic Species 146
Palaearctic Species 154
East African Rare Birds Committee 158
First and last dates of some Palaearctic migrant landbirds 159
G.C. Backhurst & D.J. Pearson. Ringing and migration at Ngulia,
Tsavo, autumn 1985 160
Individual subscribers to Scopus 163
Institutional subscribers 168
Exchanges with Scopus 169
List of observers 170
Index to authors 170
Index of scientific names 172
Published by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the EANHS and
printed in Kenya by AMREF, Wilson Airport, Box 30125, Nairobi
a | ISISNMOZS0—4 162
~ SCOPUS
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 10 (1) March 1986
SCOPUS
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NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS
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Scopus 10 (1), March 1986
SCOPUS
THE MARABOU IN KENYA
Dea POMETOV
It is hard to believe that Jackson (1938) could write, when he
recorded Marabous Leptoptilos crumeniferus from the Lower Tana River,
that this was the '... only instance of its ranging east of the Rift
Valley". And that Marabous were "... not often seen on the ground.."
The comment by Brown et al. (1982): "Frequent to common in most of
range, locally abundant ..."" seems more familiar. There is no doubt
that the species has increased greatly during the present century,
and by 1984 had been widely recorded in Kenya, except for the arid
north and east where it is still very uncommon (Lewis & Pomeroy in
press). The main purpose of this paper is to review the species'
present status in Kenya, and particularly its breeding.
Following studies of Marabous in Uganda (e.g. Pomeroy 1973), I was
interested to compare the situations in the two countries. There
are striking differences. The Marabou, despite being widespread in
Kenya, is much less numerous than in Uganda, where very large cong-
regations may occur (that is to say, several hundred birds together).
In Uganda, there are some 15-20 breeding colonies (Pomeroy 1977a),
compared to only 5 or 6 in Kenya.
SOURCES OF DATA
Between 1974 and 1982 I followed up all reports of Marabou breeding
colonies in Kenya, through the literature and by requests for infor-
mation. The results were rather disappointing. There could still be
undiscovered colonies but they are likely to be small, since most of
Kenya is crossed quite frequently by light aircraft and colonies are
conspicuous from the air. Further, pilots are likely to report them
}since the Marabou, like vultures, is a recognized hazard to light
Saarcratt.
In addition, I made observations annually from 1977 to 1982 on the
colonies at Kiboko and Kibwezi, and in several years at Kitale.
Marabou colonies take 6-8 months from nest-building to fledging, and
jas nest-building is mainly between June and October, fledging is in
}Scopus 10: 1-9, March 1986
2 The Marabou in Kenya
the next calendar year. Unless otherwise indicated, years refer to
nest building and egg laying. Records of Marabous away from breeding
colonies were not made systematically.
BREEDING COLONIES
Of the ten colonies which have been reported for Kenya, two are in
urban areas and three others adjacent to a town or village; in Uganda,
six out of the 27 recorded are in or near a town or village (Pomeroy
1977a). The numbers of nests recorded at nine of the colonies are
given in Table 1. The main features of each colony are as follows;
they are numbered in the Table.
1. Kitale. The colony is scattered in acacia trees (probably Acacia
abyssinica) on the north-western outskirts of the town. Some of the
trees are also used by Black-headed Herons Ardea melanocephala. Most
of the trees are in or adjacent to the municipal rubbish dump, a
regular feeding place for Marabous. The colony was studied in detail
by Kahl (1966).
2..Garissa. Of the two records in Table 1, North's) (1939) s1smes
birds nesting in Sterculia sp., some 40km south of the town, at
Kumide. However, in 1983-4, they were nesting in tall trees near to
the town, with nests at least 15m from the ground. The two records
could be considered as separate colonies.
3. Habaswein. At least 100 nests were being used in 1939-40 at Arop
Dima (1:00N, 39:30E) and some 30 nests, 50km to the west, at Goni
(1:00N, 30:00E). The second of these is probably the same site as a
colony reported from the Lorian Swamp by the Game Department (quoted
by Cullen 1955), since when there has been no record. The area is
one of the remotest in Kenya, and despite earlier comments on pilots
reporting colonies it is quite possible that this one does exist
Stage
4, 5 and 6. The 'Makindu' group. Kahl (1968) reported a colony of
15 nests, 7km SW of the town of Makindu, which had grown to some 45-
55 nests by 1974 (W.L.N. Tickell, pers. comm., Pomeroy 1979), in two
extremely large trees, probably Acacia gerrardii. By 1976, this
colony had disappeared - possibly as a result of human disturbance -
but a new colony had meanwhile appeared at Kiboko, in the grounds of
Hunter's Lodge hotel. Over the years, several trees have been used
at Kiboko, all A. tortilis. In at least one year, Baglafecht Weavers
Ploceus baglafecht nested in one of the Marabou trees, whilst Black-
headed Herons nested in an adjacent one.
In 1977, another colony was discovered, at Kibwezi, between the
town and the main Nairobi-Mombasa road. This is the eastern extre-
mity of the Kibwezi forest, which is supported by groundwater from
the Chyulu Hills. About 20 trees have been used in various years,
mainly A. tortilis but also some A. xanthophloea. These trees
extend over a distance of about a kilometre.
7. Central Island, Lake Turkana. Many species of water birds breed
on Central Island, or have done so, but so far as is known 1970/71
is the only year when Marabous did so.
Ww
The Marabou in Kenya
TABLE 1
Numbers of Marabou nests at all known colonies in Kenya during
the present century. Sources, and the basis for tne figures in
the final row,are given in the Notes. Breeding takes 6-8 months
in Marabous, often extending from one year into the next. The
data are given in relation to the year when eggs were laid.
Colony
Makindu Group 4
————————— i)
a S
a
& S ° ” >Y 9
o EF o 7 ue a < ey a
Rog ea Re wo Bee BA 7 a? oS
‘* V" Si “lo Girne So. an % 2)
1935-6 24°
1939 1308
1954-5 —pc 2\¢
1963 ge
1964 5°
1965 18@ 15f
1966 18°
1970 10-209
1972 65
1974 69 50h
1975 74
1976 0 5]
1977 12) w30 pk
1978 14 30
1979 87 29 70
1980 95! 19 56
1981 50! ort oats 59
1982 38! 9 56
1983 50+ 20,
Ree ahleeD,, (50), 0 18) 60. £0) 20 (0)
aE a RE a ETE. DIE ADEE OnE LEED POETS AEE EE aE
Notes: a. North 1939; b. North 1943; c. Present: A. Cullen, quoting
Kenya Game Archives for 1955; d. L.H. Brown, Nest Record Card, EANHS
eo Kanlet9665 £. Kahl 1968; ¢. M.L. Modha, pers. comm.; h. W.L.N.
Tickell, pers. comm.; j. Newsletter 17, August 1977, p.62, Dept. of
Ornithology, National Museums of Kenya; k. Newsletter 22, January
1978, Dept. of Ornithology, National Museums of Kenya; 1. W. Mokokha
and B. Tengecho, pers. comm.; m. Osborn and Alio, 1984; n. G.R.
Cunningham-van Someren, pers. comm.; p. Figures for Kitale, Kiboko
and Kibwezi are averages for the years shown, for Garissa and Wajir
the 1983 figures. The Habaswein colony is considered likely to have
4 The Marabou in Kenya
remained extant, since the environment there has not greatly changed,
although subject to considerable year-to-year variations. However,
a low figure (50) is taken in the absence of any recent record.
Figures not credited are the author's.
8. Wajir. Marabous have been recorded here twice, in two trees in
1977-78, and in five trees in 1983-84, when about 20 nests were in
use.
9. Oyugis. Leslie Brown completed a Nest Record Card on which he
stated that there were "eggs chipping on 5 November", the site being
a small forest patch. The number of nests is not mentioned:
possibly it was only one.
10. Molo. Jackson (1938) has only one, intriguing record of Marabous
breeding in Kenya: ". in a group of very tall trees on the Molo,
close to the crossing on the old caravan road...". There were about
25 nests, one at least containing incubated eggs. It has proved
impossible to discover the locality to which Jackson was referring.
In the last row of Table 1, I have attempted to estimate the
average number of nests in each colony over the five-year period
1979-1983. The overall total can be no more than a first approxi-
mation: especially because the status of the once-large Habaswein
colony is quite unknown. However, my estimated total is 265 nests.
SEASONALITY
Marabous show marked seasonal fluctuations in numbers wherever they
occur (Pomeroy 1978a): they probably undertake migrations of hundreds
of kilometres, or more (Pomeroy 1978b). In Kenya, peak numbers at a
Site near Nairobi were in March (Pomeroy 1978a). During 1979-80,
there was a major roost at Kahawa, !18km NE of Nairobi, in which
numbers increased from about 100 in October to over 1000 for several
weeks in January-February, before declining again to low numbers by
May (Ge Oban am nee):
Marabou breeding seasons vary geographically (Pomeroy 1978a). In
East Africa, egg laying is progressively later in the year as one
moves north-westwards. Fig. 1 shows data for the Kiboko-Kibwezi
colonies, and for two years at Kitale. These sites provide an
interesting contrast. Kibwezi has a mean annual rainfall of about
640 mm (Fenner 1982), whilst that at Kitale is about 1200mm (Kenya
Meteorological Department, in litt.). As at most other sites in
eastern Africa, breeding in Kenya begins as the wet season is ending,
but at Kitale this happens when the rainfall is still about 100mm a
month, whereas at Kibwezi it is practically nil. Thus it seems to be
declining rainfall rather than the actual amount of rain, which
stimulates breeding at these sites. Both at Kitale and Kiboko-
Kibwezi, rainfall remained low for most of the five months when young
are in the nest.
I have argued previously (Pomeroy 1978b) that when a rainy season
is prolonged, breeding is delayed. Conversely, shorter-than-average
The Marabou in Kenya
KIBWEZI KITALE
long-term average rainfall long-term average rainfall
(KTA)
iw
1978-79
50 KK
0 150
KT
0G 1979-80
1 x b
9 1979-80
50 50
0 0
100
KT
KZ 1980-81 wb 1980-81
50 xb 50
0 (6)
1981-82
KKKZ
50 Seed
0
100 1982-83
KKKZ
50 ~
Fig. 1. Mean egg laying dates compared to monthly rainfall.
Left: Kiboko (KK) and Kibwezi (KZ) with rainfall for Kibwezi
(Fenner 1982). Right: Kitale (KT) with Kitale rainfall;
KTA = average egg laying date at Kitale for five previous
years (Pomeroy 1978b, Fig. 4), with long-term average rain-
fall data (courtesy Kenya Meteorological Department) .
rains, as seen in 1979-80 and 1980-81 at Kitale, and 1978-79 at
Kiboko-Kibwezi, allowed breeding to start sooner. Thus one might
also have expected earlier breeding at Kibwezi in 1980-81, when in
fact the timing was similar to other, wetter, years. This might
suggest that the birds had come to Kibwezi from a higher rainfall
area, just prior to breeding. That they do indeed come from else-
6 The Marabou in Kenya
where seems certain, because there are very few if any Marabous in
the Kibwezi area between January and May.
e7
2.0
@
is°]
a
oO
— Kiboko and Kibwezi
<x
= 1 5 ~S -
o 2S
> ~
g Rt eth
my ~ <
3 2 Se
SB
— 9 ~N
8 a
= 9 Natete, Uganda LS
= 1.3 ~N a
$ ~
e Mean date of fledging =>
i}
E
>|
Cc
Cc
is°]
ao
=
50 100 150 200
Time (d) from mean date of egg laying
Fig. 2. Numbers of young per surviving nest at
Kiboko (0) and Kibwezi (@) (on two occasions in
some years) and at various stages of the nestling
period: the time scale represents days after the
mean date of egg laying. Two observations from
Kitale (®) are also shown. The years are:
8 = 78/9, 9 = 79/80, 0 = 80/1, 2 = 81/2, 2 ="82/3e
The upper calculated regression (note logarithmic
scale on vertical axis) is based upon the data for
Kiboko and Kibwezi, and its equation is:
log y = 0.38 - 0.00132x (r = 0.586, P<0.1)
The lower regression, included for comparison, is
for Natete, Uganda (Pomeroy 1978c, Fig. 7). The
mean date of egg laying is calculated from the
appearance of the nestlings, and the average time
of fledging is day 182 (Pomeroy 1978c).
BREEDING SUCCESS
From 1978-79 to 1982-83, I made several visits each season to the
colonies at Kiboko and Kibwezi, to determine the total numbers of
nests and to estimate the average numbers of young produced per nest
- that is, the breeding success (Fig. 2). In general, the average
numbers of young per nest decline as they get older, because some die
in the nest or may even fall out. In Uganda (Pomeroy 1978c) and at
The Marabou in Kenya
Kitale in Kenya (Kahl 1966), the average number of eggs laid is 2.7
per nest, but as Fig. 2 shows, only about 1.4 young per nest survive
to the age of fledging at the Kiboko-Kibwezi colonies; and this
figure excludes nests which failed early in the season. Nevertheless
one pair at Kiboko reared three young to fledging in 1978-79.
Colony size (per cent maximum)
Time scale (d)
Fig. 3. The total number of nests in use at Kibwezi
in 1980-81 (@) and 1981-82 (0) compared to the
average for three years at Natete, Uganda (A:
Pomeroy 1978c, Fig. 1(a)). The vertical scale shows
the number of nests on a particular day compared to
the total built, whilst the time scale is days from
the mean egg laying date, as in Fig. 2.
The overall breeding success of the Kiboko-Kibwezi colonies is
less than that implied by Fig. 2. This is because some nests fail
completely. The proportion that do so can only be determined by
frequent visits, as was done at Natete, Uganda (Fig. 3). Here, the
overall success in three consecutive years was 0.7, 1.2 and 0.9
young per nest, an average of 0.9 for the colony as a whole. At
Kiboko-Kibwezi, the numbers of nestlings per surviving nest were
greater than at Natete (Fig. 2), yet more nests seem to have failed
(Fig. 3). It is therefore likely that an overall figure of about
0.9 young per nest could be applied to Kiboko and Kibwezi too.
Breeding success at Kitale in 1979-80 and 1980-81 was significantly
lower than for the other two Kenya colonies shown in Fig. 2. This
may have contributed to the rapid decline in that colony in the
following two years (see Table !).
DISCUSSION
Marabous are gregarious, but away from their few breeding colonies
their numbers in Kenya are quite low, rarely exceeding 50 at any one
place. This contrasts with Uganda, where several hundreds were
regularly seen at some fishing villages (Pomeroy 1973, 1977b). In
Kenya, the largest numbers appear at roosts, as mentioned earlier:
even in July, over 200 were recorded at one roost near Athi River
(Evans et al. 1973).
8 The Marabou in Kenya
The total Kenya breeding population is probably less than 300
pairs, whereas in uganda more than 2000 were recorded in the 1970s
(Pomeroy 1977a). Despite the very large numbers roosting at one
site in Nairobi in 1979-80, the total population of this species in
Kenya seems unlikely to be more than 1000-2000, with the highest
numbers between December and March.
If one compares the numbers of pairs breeding at the only three
colonies for which there are annual records from 1979 to 1982 (Table
1), the average number of nests at these colonies in 1979 and 1980
was 178; but in 1981 and 1982 it was 84.5, a decline of more than
50 per cent. The Marabou population in Kenya is apparently not
stable, and further studies are likely to prove interesting.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I thank those who were kind enough to supply data, or to assist in
making counts.
REFERENCES
CULLEN, A. 1955. Window onto wilderness.
EVANS, S.M., CANTRELL, M.A. & CRAM, A. (Eds.) 1973. Report of the
University of Newcastle upon Tyne Exploration Society's Expedition
to Kenya 1972. Mimeo report.
FENNER, M. 1982. Features of the rainfall at Kibwezi, Kenya. East
African Agriculture and Forestry Journal 45: 83-91.
KAHL, M.P. 1966. A contribution to the ecology and reproductive
biology of the Marabou Stork (Leptoptilos crumeniferus)in East
Africa. | Journal of. Zoologu, .wonudon so 17209 —5)uin
1968. Recent breeding records of storks in Eastern Africa.
Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and National
Museum 27 (116): 67-72.
LEWIS, A. Di. .& POMEROY, DoE. in wpress. 6 Al bird jablass pOrelmen ga
Rotterdam: Balkema.
NORTH, M.E.W. 1939. Field notes on certain raptorial and water birds
in Kenya Colony. TFbis 81: 487-507.
1943. The breeding of the Marabou Stork in East Africa
This 85: 190-198. 3
OSBORN, R.M. & ALIO, A.M. 1984. A birdwatching safari in the North
East Province, Part Il. EANHS Bulletin 1984: 88-96. ;
POMEROY, D.E. 1973. The distribution and abundance of marabou storks
in Uganda. East African Wildlife Journal 2: 227-240.
1977a. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus breeding
colonies in Uganda. Journal of the East Africa Natural History
Society and National Museum 31 (161): I-11.
1977b. The biology of Marabou Storks in Uganda. lI.
Some general characteristics of the species, and the population
structure. Ardea 65: 1-24.
The Marabou in Kenya 9
POMEROY, D.E. 1978a. Counts of Marabou Storks Leptoptilos crumeni-
ferus in relation to their movements in eastern Africa. Scopus 2:
92-96.
1978b. Seasonality of Marabou Storks Leptoptilos
crumeniferus in eastern Africa. Ibis 120: 213-321.
1978c. The biology of Marabou Storks in Uganda. II.
Breeding biology and general review. Ardea 66: 1-23.
1979. Nesting of Marabou Storks in the Makindu-Kiboko-
Kibwezi area. EANHS Bulletin 1979: 114-116.
D.E. Pomeroy, Department of Zoology, Makerere University, Box 7062,
Kampala, Uganda.
(Received 18 June 1985)
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
THREATS TO THE WHITE STORK ON MIGRATION
In January 1986, WWF-Germany and ICBP started a joint project to in-
vestigate the threats to the White Stork Ciconia ciconia on its migra-
tion routes and in its wintering areas. Major aims of the project are:
@ to analyse factors threatening the White Stork directly and
indirectly in the different countries on its migration routes
@ to analyse the extent of application of biocides and their
direct and indirect effects on migrating White Storks
@ to draw together a list of areas which are of major import-
ance for migrating White Storks
@ to produce comprehensive documentation containing results
of the project and suggestions for an international conserv-
ation strategy for the species
Collaborators are needed who can submit information and observations
from southern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. People interested in
co-operating should contact the project leader as soon as possible for
further details:
WWF-Germany/ICBP White Stork Project, Dr Holger Schulz, Am Lindenberg 1
D-3331 LELM, Federal Republic of Germany [tel: 05353/8005]
10
INTERACTIONS BETWEEN RESIDENT AND MIGRATORY WAGTAILS
MOTACILLA SPP. IN ETHIOPIA - AN ECOLOGICAL CONUNDRUM
Stephanie J. Tyler and S.J. Ormerod
The co-existence of congeneric animals is frequently facilitated by
factors which reduce competition for resources such as food, space or
nest sites (see for example Branch 1976, Finlay & Berninger 1984,
Hildrew & Edington 1979, Meserve 1976 and Schoener 1974). Lack (1971)
reviewed many instances of such niche segregation between breeding
birds; wherever ranges of habitats coincided, ecological isolation
could occur by interspecific differences in micro-habitat occupation
and/or feeding preferences (see Lack 1971, Perrins & Birkhead 1983).
In some cases, direct competition results in interspecific aggression,
mutual exclusion from breeding territories (e.g. Garcia 1983) and in
"niche=shifts' (e.g. Davis 1973, Allerstam et al. 1974). invotner
cases, breeding success may be inane by the pueHeanee of close com-
petitors (Minot 1981, Hogstedt 1980).
Little detailed attention has been given to interactions between
Palaearctic migrants and congeneric residents in Africa (e.g. Lack
1971, Moreau 1972, Morel 1973). In Ethiopia, for example, the winter
influx of Grey Wagtails Motacilla cinerea, Yellow Wagtails M. flava
and White Wagtails M. alba leads to possible contacts with the
resident African Pied M. aguimp and Mountain Wagtails M. clara. This
paper reviews the distribution and habitat preferences shown by each
species in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. Where available, infor-
mation is given on breeding biology and feeding ecology. Particular
attention is given to interactions between M. cinerea and M. clara;
these species show similar habitat preferences and co-occur at a time
when M. clara is breeding.
SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS
General distributions within Africa of resident and migrant Motacilla
spp. were drawn from the literature. More specific accounts for
Ethiopia were based on fieldwork between October 1973 and January 1977
mostly in the central province of Shewa. This province includes habi-
tats ranging from desert at 1000m0.D., rift valley lakes with Acacia
woodland and savanna, and montane forest and moorland at over 3000m.
Motacilla aguimp African Pied Wagtail
African distribution
The commonest wagtail in Africa, M. aguimp has a similar range to M.
clara (see below). It occurs throughout the continent south of the
Sahara, though it is absent from the Somali Republic and from the
extreme west of Cape Province (Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957). Several
authors have noted an association with dwellings and settlements
(Belcher 1930, Vincent 1935, Priest 1935, Benson 1940, Mackworth-Praed
& Grant 1957, Elgood & Sibley 1964). It occurs throughout an altitu-
dinal range from sea level to 3000m and generally, alongside pools,
ponds, swamps and particularly along larger rivers.
Scopus 10: 10-19, March 1986
Wagtails in Ethiopia 1]
Distribution in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, M. aguimp occurs locally everywhere except in the south-
east (Urban & Brown 1971) and extreme north (Smith 1955). Most obser-
vations were on large but fast-flowing rivers below 2000m (see also
Cheeseman 1935, Smith 1957, Olson 1976). Breeding abundances of one
pair per 1.6km (Smith 1957) and up to four pairs per kilometre (this
study) have been recorded.
Breeding Biology
Most breeding records were between February and July prior to the
rains, and most clutches were of two to three eggs (c.f. Belcher 1930
and Priest 1935 who noted clutches of four to five eggs in southern
Africa). Nest sites included rock ledges, holes in walls and bridge
sites.
Motacilla clara Mountain Wagtail
African Distribution
From Liberia eastwards to Ethiopia; southwards to Cape Province M.c.
torrentium and M.c. chapini have extensive ranges in Africa but the
longer-winged nominate race is confined to Ethiopia. Over most of
its range, M. clara favours small, often forested, fast-flowing
mountain streams between 1250 and 3000m; some observations at lower
altitudes may reflect seasonal movements (Belcher 1930, Benson 1940,
Winterbottom 1964, Serle 1950, Elgood 1973, Britton 1980).
Distribution in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, M. clara is a montane species and there is no Seidenien
for any seasonal movement to lower altitudes. It occurs on small,
wooded highland rivers and streams from 1500 to 3400m both north and
south of the Rift Valley. In Shewa, it is found on those stretches of
river favoured by the Abyssinian Black Duck Anas sparsa. In southern
Tigre it was common and Olson (1976) found it frequent on the wooded
streams in the Tana Basin, the Tacazze River and western escarpment of
Begemder and Simien Province. In northern Tigre it was only observed
twice between January and May 1976 despite searches along apparently
Suitable watercourses. These two records were on a wooded stream near
Samre, southwest of Makalle, and near Enticho close to the Eritrean
border. K. Thorogood (pers. comm.) did not record M. clara in
northern Tigre from March 1973 to September 1975, and it was not seen
in Eritrea (Smith 1955, 1957, this study).
Breeding Biology
Breeding was recorded in January to April and from September to
November (c.f. Moreau 1949: all year; Winterbottom 1964: August to
December). Forty-five nest sites included cliff ledges, banks over-
hanging water, bankside roots, holes in walls and recesses in bridges;
generally similar to those used by M. cinerea in Britain (Tyler 1972).
Six nests contained clutches of 2 eggs, although two parties of 3
fledged young were seen. Other studies elsewhere in Africa indicate
a clutch size of 2-3 (occasionally 4) (Moreau 1949, Belcher 1930,
Winterbottom 1936, 1964, Piper 1982). One nest which was regularly
observed gave an incubation period of 13 days (c.f. Moreau 1949: 14
K2 Wagtails in Ethiopia
days) and a fledging period of 15-16 days. Juvenile dependency varied
from 14-30 days.
Food and feeding behaviour
Food items taken by M. clara included larval and adult dipterans,
other winged insects such as mayflies and dragonflies and larvae or
nymphs of aquatic invertebrates.
Birds fed by flycatching over water, picking and run-picking from
the river edge or from rocks. Birds were also observed walking in
shallow water and catching tadpoles, and one pair when feeding juve-
niles caught numerous large dragonfly nymphs; each was clubbed
against a rock prior to being fed to the young.
M. cinerea Grey Wagtail
African Distribution
In Africa M. cinerea breeds only in Morocco where it is abundant up to
9000 feet (2700m) (Chalworth-Muster 1939).
The main wintering area is in the northeast and east, some birds
crossing the equator. M. cinerea has been recorded regularly from
Malawi (Benson et al. 1971, Benson & Benson 1977), occasionally from
southern Zambia and Natal and recently from Zimbabwe (Williams 1984).
Few occur in West Africa but some do penetrate to 2 N in northeastern
Zaire and appear along streams and tracks in forests (Moreau 1972).
In the Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya and northeastern Tanzania, birds
are widespread in the winter on fast-flowing, wooded mountain streams
from 1500 to 3000m. Further north they occur at low altitudes in
oases of the Sahara and in the Arabian Gulf.
Distribution in Ethiopia
M. cinerea was found to be common in Ethiopia on those highland streams
and rivers favoured by M. clara. It occurred also in a variety of
other habitats such as around farms, sewage pits, forest tracks, moist
grassland and along larger rivers. It was most frequent between 1500
and 3000m, but was observed in the Simien Mountains at almost 4000m
and in Tigre province at the foot of the escarpment on a lowland river
below 1000m. Friedmann (1937) recorded M. cinerea in Abyssinia only
above above 4000 feet (1220m) and quoted Mearns as finding it as high
as 10000 feet (3050m). In Eritrea Smith (1957) found M. cinerea to
be a regular winter visitor to dams, escarpment streams and, in
Dancalia (below 500m), he often observed it far from water in
Combretum woodland and sometimes dry Acacia.
M. cinerea was one of the earliest Palaearctic migrants to arrive in
Ethiopia. Daily observations in a wadi in northeast Eritrea from June
1976 to January 1977 showed the first M. cinerea on 12 August (Tyler
1978). One to three birds were noted on most days up to 10 October,
with a maximum of eight birds on an 800m stretch of a small stream
flowing down the wadi. Two birds on 27 October were the last
recorded. In eastern Ethiopia Dr J.S. Ash (pers. comm.) recorded an
early migrant on 1 September but in the Shewan highlands birds were
not seen until mid-September with the first record in Addis Ababa on
Wagtails in Ethiopia 13
18 September (this study). In the spring, they left the highlands
during March although some remained until early April. Smith's (1957)
latest records were in Eritrea on 13 April.
Food and feeding behaviour
M. cinerea fed in the same manner as M. clara and appeared to be
taking the same prey items - benthic invertebrates and adult winged
insects. In Eritrea birds were observed feeding in a very shallow
stream, pecking repeatedly at blackfly Simulium larvae which were
abundant.
Motacilla alba White Wagtail
African Distribution
The Palaearctic White Wagtail occurs across northern tropical Africa
during the northern winter with a few birds reaching Zambia and
Malawi (Benson et al. 1971). Numbers appear to be relatively few in
West Africa (Moreau 1972).
Distribution in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the main wintering areas; M. alba is common from
the coast to over 2500m between October and March. The earliest
dates of arrival are 14 October (Smith 1957) and 20 October (Tyler
1978) in Eritrea; the latest record is 8 April (Ash 1980).
M. alba utilizes a greater range of habitats than other species of
wagtail. It may be found around buildings in towns and villages, by
lakes, streams and rivers, muddy pools, irrigation ditches, vegetable
patches and farmyards, desert wells and damp grassland, either singly
or in small groups. A flock of up to 19 birds wintered in a wadi in
northeast Eritrea in 1976/77 (Tyler 1978).
Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail
African Distribution
This species winters across Africa and as far south as Zambia with
different races favouring different parts of the continent (see Wood
1976). Sudan, Ethiopia and northern Kenya are the main wintering
area for several races.
Distribution in Ethiopia
A number of races occur throughout Ethiopia between late August and
June; some, such as M.f. lutea, are passage migrants. Urban & Brown
(1971) accepted six races - flavissima, flava, beema, thunbergi,
lutea and feldegg. Previous flavissima records may, however, have
been confused with lutea (see Moreau 1972 and Pearson & Backhurst
1973). Smith (1957) determined five races in Eritrea - flava
(including beema and dombrowski, lutea, thunbergi, feldegg and
Superciliaris. He found the last to be fairly common on passage
along the coastal plain between February and April; Pain, Tyler &
Vittery (1975) recorded one bird in Addis Ababa. Mixed flocks of
flava, thunbergi and feldegg occurred with feldegg often predomina-
ting on the coastal plain and on the plateau in Eritrea (Smith 1957).
M.f. feldegg was also common in Tigre, sometimes occurring singly
14 Wagtails in Ethiopia
alongside open streams (this study) but further south M.f. flava
was most abundant. Wallace (1955) noted that feldegg preferred
wetter habitats than other races.
Yellow Wagtails occurred in large numbers on the highland plateau
feeding in flocks on open grassland, usually with herds of cattle
or goats or flocks of sheep; they also accompanied domestic animals
Or game in savanna and around lake shores in the Rift Valley. At
the edge of Koko Reservoir in the northern Rift Valley, they fed -
alongside Red-throated Pipits Anthus cervinus and Richard's Pipits
A. novaeseelandiae. Associations of M. flava, A. cervinus and
Ortolan Buntings Emberiza hortulana were recorded by slow-flowing
highland rivers and on other muddy ground, where these species came
into contact with M. alba. Wood (1976) noted that in Nigeria, A.
cervinus was the only real competitor of M. flava.
SPECIES INTERACTIONS WITHIN ETHIOPIA
The presence in Ethiopia of five Motacilla species during the nor-
thern winter provides for possible interactions. At least for M.
aguimp, M. alba and M. flava, there is sufficient habitat segre-
gation and plasticity to prevent inter-specific competition (Table
1). Casual observations, however, indicated that M. clara and M
cinerea were less clearly segregated by habitat or feeding behaviour
and a more specific study on these species was initiated.
TABLE 1
Habitat preferences shown by resident and migrant Motacilla
spp. in Ethiopia during the northern winter
a
Species Preferred habitat altitudinal
distribution
M. aquimp Lakes, pools, larger 50-2000 m
rivers, occasionally
pastures
M. clara Small, wooded high- 1500-3500 m
land rivers
M. cinerea Small, wooded high- 1500-3000 m
land rivers, occasionally
other wet habitats
M. alba Highly plastic; towns, 0-2500 m
villages and all wet
habitats
M. flava Drier grassland than M. 0-3000 m
alba or M. aguimp; often
with domestic stock
a
Wagtails in Ethiopia 15
Detailed observations were made between March 1974 and March 1975
of territoriality and interactions between M. clara and M. cinerea.
Most data were from three highland rivers (1750-2500m) supplemented
by data from streams at Sebeta and Meta west of Addis Ababa (Table 2).
TABLE 2
Territories held by M. clara and M. cinerea on
some Ethiopian rivers
River Length sur- M. clara M. cinerea
veyed (m) Pairs Average Indivi- Average
length duals length
of ter- of ter-
ritory ritory
Akaki (Addis 1300 2 650 7 186
Ababa)
Ambo (120 kmwest 1600 6-70) 228-267 6 267
of Addis)
Bole valley 2500 G2 = 2062777, 12 208
Meta (west of 600 1 600 5 120
Addis)
Sebeta (west of 700 1 700 4 jy)
Addis)
Romanat Falls 600 = = 3 200
(Tigre)
There was some evidence that the two species were partly mutually
exclusive, with M. cinerea occurring in greatest numbers where M.
clara was relatively scarce (Fig. 1). Nevertheless, few interspecific
territorial encounters were witnessed and individuals from each
species frequently fed in close proximity, even on the same rock.
In the Bole Valley during March 1975, mixed feeding groups consisting
of four to five M. clara (fledged young plus adults) and one M.
cinerea were commonly seen. Other accounts confirm the tolerance
shown between these species (Winterbottom 1964, Moreau 1972, Williams
1984), although they are strongly intraspecifically aggressive.
DISCUSSION
At least for three of the five Motacilla spp. present in Ethiopia
during the northern winter, fairly clear habitat preferences prevent
any direct competition (Table 1). By contrast, the apparently close
association between M. clara and M. cinerea, without obvious inter-
Specific aggression, represents a subject for further research. Most
breeding pairs of M. clara tolerated M. cinerea within their territo-
ries. Moreover, M. clara is structurally very similar to M. cinerea
16 Wagtails in Ethiopia
and its slightly larger bill is probably not sufficiently different
for the two to coexist and not compete for the same food (B. Wood,
pers. comm.).
M.cinerea- birds km'
Fig. 1. The abundances of
breeding M. clara and
migrant M. cinerea along
five rivers in Ethiopia.
The line was fitted by eye.
(0) 2 4 6
M.clara—pairs km’
Moreau (1966) suggested that Palaearctic migrants might be accomo-
dated within the Afrotropical region during the northern winter due
to a seasonal superabundance of food. Other breeding passerines have
been shown to coexist where food is abundant despite showing little
ecological segregation (Blancher & Robertson 1984). Alternatively,
the available food may be non-depressible (Charnov et al. 1976).
Whilst few quantitative data are available on the benthic inverte-
brates of highland streams in Ethiopia, those in regions with
similar climate and physiography have been described (Williams &
Hynes 1971, Hynes 1975). The greatest invertebrate abundances
accompany the end of the rainy season and groups such as the
Simuliidae predominate. Consequently, an abundant and readily
available food supply is likely to occur when M. cinerea arrives in
Ethiopia and when M. clara is breeding. Nevertheless, some degree
of mutual exclusion (Fig. 1) seemed apparent and the breeding per-
formance of M. clara should be compared between territories with and
without co-occurring M. cinerea (Hogstedt 1980, Minot 1981).
Additional quantitative data are also required on the food taken by
each species.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
One of us (SJT) was in receipt of a grant of £50 from the British
Ornithologists" Union and we are grateful for this contribution
Wagtails in Ethiopia 17
towards the fieldwork. The encouragement and help from Dr John S. Ash
and Mr Lindsay Tyler is also acknowledged.
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1950. A contribution to the ornithology of the British
Cameroons. ZIbis 92: 369.
SMITH, KD 19552" Recent “cecords from Exitrea’. “kbis 97 Goa-o0™
1957. An annotated check list of the birds of Eritrea.
Tbis 99: 307-337.
TYLER, S.J. 1972. Breeding biology of the Grey Wagtail. Bird Study
NS 69=60r
1978. Some observations of birds in Fah, northeast
Eritrea. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club 98: 80-87.
Wagtails in Ethiopia 19
URBAN, E.K. & BROWN, L.H. 1971. A Checklist of the Birds of
Ethiopia. Addis Ababa: Haile Selassie I University Press.
VINCENT, J. 1935. The Birds of Portugese East Africa. Ibis 13.
WALLACE, D.I.M. 1955. The mixing of the races of the Yellow Wagtail
in Kenya. British Birds 48: 337-340.
WILLIAMS, J. 1984. Grey Wagtail at Nyanga. The Honeyguide 30(2): 77.
WILLIAMS, T.R. & HYNES, H.B.N. 1971. A survey of the fauna of streams
on Mount Elgon, East Africa, with special reference to the
Simuliidae (Diptera). Freshwater Biology 1: 227-248.
WINTERBOTTOM, J.M. 1936. Distributional and other notes on some
Northern Rhodesian birds. Ibis 13: 776.
1964. Notes on the wagtails of southern Africa.
mOstrrenigos 129-141.
WOOD, B. 1976. The Biology of Yellow Wagtails Motacilla flava L.
overwintering in Nigeria. Ph.D. Thesis. University of Aberdeen.
Stephanie J. Tyler, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Wales
Office, Frolic Street, Newtown, Powys SY16 1AP, Wales, and S.J.
Ormerod, Department of Applied Biology, University of Wales
Institute of Science and Technology, King Edward VII Avenue, Cathays
Park, Cardiff, Wales.
(Received 23 August 1985)
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
Between 1970 and 1975 I ringed almost 2000 birds in the Kakamega
Forest and adjacent parts of the South Nandi Forest. The vast
majority were resident forest species and many were controlled
frequently. Since leaving East Africa eleven years ago I have
received almost no information on the retrapping of these birds.
However, I know that a number of ornithologists have been active
with mist nets in the area since that time and could not avoid
capturing some of my birds. I would have expected anyone capturing
a ringed bird to be curious enough to report it to the Ringing
Organizer to discover the details of its original capture. This
seems not to have happened. That some of the birds are almost
certainly alive in the area is evidenced by the fact that in
January 1985 Dr Simon Cox captured one of my birds first ringed in
1974, and one ringed by D.A. Zimmerman in 1965, in just a few hours
of netting.
Anyone who has information is encouraged to contact me at the address
given. Any retrap details will be very gratefully received and ack-
nowledged, and I will supply the original ringing details.
Clive F. Mann, P.O. Box 2359, Bandar Seri Begawan, State of Brunei.
20
BREEDING RECORDS OF SOME TANZANIAN BIRDS
N.R. Fuggles-Couchman
In 1984 the author submitted all his breeding records of Tanzanian
birds, collected between 1930 and 1962, to Mr P.B. Taylor for
inclusion in the East Africa Natural History Society Nest Record
Scheme. The result has been to highlight a number of important and
interesting records of birds for which there are at present no cards
for East Africa, or no cards for Tanzania, or only one or two in
each case. They also include the first description of the nest of
Moreau's Sunbird Nectarinia moreaui and the first East African
breeding records of the Morning Thrush Cichladusa arguata and Crested
Flycatcher Trochocercus cyanomelas.
The majority of these records have not been published before,
others were published some years ago in the body of papers on other
subjects, or in journals not confined to matters of ornithological
interest, e.g. Tanganyika Notes and Records. As some of those
available do not appear to have been used by Brown & Britton (1980)
when compiling The Breeding Seasons of East African Birds, it is
thought worthwhile to include them here.
Unfortunately, some of the records presented in this paper are
based only on the state of gonads which, following the criteria of
Brown & Britton (1980), can only be indicative of the breeding season
of the species. For those species where records are sparse or non-
existent, it has been considered worth including them here.
Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe
Brown & Britton (1980) list 18 records, all from Region D, covering
the months May to August inclusive, suggesting a breeding season
after the long rains. After the very heavy short rains of 1961, a
nest with 2 eggs was found on 7 January 1962 at Eluanata Dam, Masai-
land, in Region D. The dam had filled completely at a season when it
was normally reduced to a small area of water immediately above the
dam wall. This species and the many other species of waterfowl
nesting there in January 1962 demonstrate the birds' ability to take
timely advantage of suitable conditions for breeding when they occur.
Oxyura maccoa Maccoa Duck
There are only six records for this species in Brown & Britton (1980)
all from Region D, and scattered through the months March-October.
In addition to a November record from Arusha National Park (Hazel A.
Britton 1981), three nests with eggs were found at Eluanata Dam on
27 February 1962, extending the breeding season to the short rains
and the dry season before the long rains.
Sarkidiornis melanotos Knob-billed Goose
As there is only one record for Region D in Brown & Britton (1980),
for the month of February, it is worth noting two nests with eggs on
27 February 1962 on Eluanata Dam, and another record of a female with
Scopus 10: 20-26, March 1986
Breeding of Tanzanian birds 21
egg in shell in the oviduct on 28 February 1952, from Kilingali,
Kilosa.
Coturnix coturnix Quail
Records of two nests from the Ardai Plains, northern Tanzania, on 28
June 1944 (Fuggles-Couchman & Elliott 1946) have provided data for
the first cards from Tanzania in the Nest Record Scheme.
Fulica cristata Red-knobbed Coot
The numerous records available to Brown & Britton (1980) from Region
D show a clear peak in May-July, with a secondary peak in September-
October, with only one record for January. However, this is another
species which will take advantage of suitable conditions for breeding
when they occur. In January 1962 it was in full breeding activity on
Eluanata Dam, northern Tanzania. Details were taken of three nests,
but at least another six nests with eggs were found.
Rostratula benghalensis Painted Snipe
A nest with 4 eggs at Lake Manyara on 3 August 1959 has provided data
for the first card for this species from Tanzania in the Nest Record
Scheme. This nest is the same as that recorded by Thomas (1960).
Streptopelia decipiens Mourning Dove
Brown & Britton (1980) have five records for this species from
Region C, all for May, in the early dry season. A nest found on 21
March 1957, SW of Dodoma in Region C, contained one almost fully
fledged nestling and one addled egg, and the breeding season would
have coincided with the main rains. This record provides the first
card from Tanzania for this species.
Oena capensis Namaqua Dove
A nest with 2 eggs, found near Dar es Salaam on 2 July 1936, adds to
the scanty records for this species in Brown & Britton (1980), and
provides further evidence of a dry season breeding season.
Tauraco porphyreolophus Violet-crested Turaco
There are only two East African breeding records for this species,
both from Tanzania (Taylor, pers. comm.) from near Iringa in Region
C (Brown & Britton 1980). A female collected at Kidete, northern
Kilosa, in Region D on 3 March 1934 contained a well-formed egg in
the oviduct, and provides a first record from that Region.
Merops boehmi Boehm's Bee-eater
This species appears to have been overlooked by Brown & Britton (1980)
and there is no card in the Nest Record Scheme from East Africa. A
female collected on 17 September 1937 on the edge of the gallery
forest at Mvuha, southern Morogoro, had a well-developed egg in the
oviduct. The date of this record falls within the peak season for
other Merops spp. in Region D, especially the Little Bee-eater M.
pusillus.
Merops hirundineus Swallow-tailed Bee-eater
There is only one dated record in Brown & Britton (1980), which is
from Region A. Although only based on the condition of the gonads,
a record from Region D should be noted. A male, with enlarged gonads
22 Breeding of Tanzanian birds
was collected south of Dar es Salaam on 3 October 1935, suggesting
breeding towards the end of the dry season between the long and
short rains; c.f. the suggestion in Brown & Britton (1980) that egg-
laying in Region A may be at the end of the dry season.
Tockus alboterminatus Crowned Hornbill
Only four records from Region D are given by Brown & Britton (1980)
in February, September (2) and November, and in Regions D and E.
Together the records show a definite preference for the dry season.
A record from the western foothills of the Nguru Mts, of a pair
feeding young at the nest on 20 July 1931, follows the same pattern,
although rather earlier in the dry season.
Lybius torquatus Black-collared Barbet
Up to 1982 there were only three dated East African breeding records
(Brown & Britton 1980, Taylor 1983b), one of which is from Tanzania,
from Tatanda in Region C. Brown & Britton (1980) refer to breeding
in Eastern Tanzania, possibly in Region D, in January. This is
believed to refer to a record of a pair at a nesthole presumed to
contain young, as an adult was seen to leave the nest carrying a
faecal sac (Fuggles-Couchman 1939). This record was from near Dar
es Salaam, Region D.
Dendropicos fuscescens Cardinal Woodpecker
A pair feeding young at the nest on 25 December 1953, at Morningside,
Morogoro, and a Nest Record card from Arusha (Taylor 1983b), both in
Region D, together with a card from Mpanda, Region C (Hazel A.
Britton 1981), both for December, suggest that in Tanzania this
species shows a great preference for the period covering the latter
part of the short rains, rather than the dry season as suggested by
Brown & Britton (1980).
Smithornis capensis African Broadbill
Brown & Britton (1980) have only one record from Region D, for
December. Records based on the condition of gonads of three males
collected (a) in Dar es Salaam district, 23 January 1936, (b)
Kingolwira, Morogoro, 11 February 1938 and (c) Mbulumbulu, northern
Tanzania, 18 November 1943, suggest a breeding season in Region D
covering the latter part of the short rains into the dry season
following them.
Parus rufiventris Rufous-bellied Tit
The only card for this species for East Africa is from Tanzania (P.B.
Taylor, pers. comm.), from Arusha National Park, Region D, for April
(Hazel A. Britton 1980). A male collected at Kingolwira, Morogoro on
4 August 1938 had enlarged gonads and is worth noting.
Alcippe abyssinica African Hill Babbler
There were no East African breeding records of this species up to the
end of 1982 (Brown & Britton 1980, Taylor 1983a, b). Breeding has
been noted at the Kikuyu Escarpment Forest, Kenya (Region D), from
November to January in 1984-86, in the period between the short and
long rains (P.B. Taylor, in litt.). An indication of the possible
breeding season in Region C is provided by a male, collected in
Breeding of Tanzanian birds 23
gallery forest at 1990m on Mt Hanang on 4 February 1946, which had
much enlarged gonads and was in full song.
Andropadus importunus Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul
A nest with 2 eggs was found in coastal scrub near Dar es Salaam on
8 January 1956. Brown & Britton (1980) list only six records from
Region D, and only one falling in January.
Cichladusa arguata Morning Thrush
A nest containing 2 eggs, found on 20 May 1952, is the first East
African record for this species. The nest was placed on the capital
of a pillar in the verandah of the Old Boma, Morogoro.
Turdus libonyanus Kurrichane Thrush
There is no record in Brown & Britton (1980) for this species from
Region D. A male in full song and with much enlarged gonads was
collected at Msongozi, Morogoro district, on 12 October 1937,
suggesting a breeding season similar to that for this species in
Region C.
Acrocephalus gracilirostris Lesser Swamp Warbler
As there are no cards in the Nest Record Scheme from Tanzania, it is
worth noting several new nests in scattered patches of Cyperus
auratus in Eluanata Dam on 7 January 1962. No eggs were found.
Apalis alticola Brown-headed Apalis
There are no records for this species in Brown & Britton (1980), nor
is it included in their lists of birds falling into Categories 1 and
2. It is therefore of interest to note a male, with much enlarged
gonads, collected on 4 February in gallery forest on the NE slopes
of Mt Hanang, at 2100m. Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1955) give the
breeding season in Central Tanzania as probably October-February.
Chloropeta similis Mountain Yellow Warbler
Brown & Britton (1980) give only three records for this species, in
July, August and November, and all from Region D. A bird seen
Carrying nesting material at Mbulumbulu on 16 October 1943 is worth
noting.
Macrosphenus kretschmeri Kretschmer's Longbill
There is only one East African record (Brown & Britton 1980) for this
Species, in April in Region D. It is therefore worth noting a male
in full song, and with much enlarged gonads, collected in the Pugu
Hills, Dar es Salaam, on 14 April 1936.
Batis mixta Forest Batis
There are only four East African breeding records (P.B. Taylor pers.
comm.) and none from Tanzania, although Mackworth-Praed & Grant
(1955) give the recorded breeding for Tanzania as October-December.
A nest found in rain forest at Bunduki, western Uluguru Mts on 23
December 1956, and containing 2 eggs, appears to be a first record
for Tanzania.
Trochocercus albonotatus White-tailed Crested Flycatcher
Brown & Britton (1980) give only five records for this species in
East Africa, all from Amani, Tanzania, and all in October. A record
24 ' Breeding of Tanzanian birds
from another Tanzanian locality, in the northern Uluguru Mts near
Morogoro, can be added: a pair was watched finishing building a nest
on 26 December 1953. At the Kikuyu Escarpment forest, Kenya,
breeding has been noted in September-October and December-March,
these months representing the pre-short rains dry period and the dry
spell between short and long rains; there are no records for the wet
month of November (P.B. Taylor, in litt.).
Trochocercus cyanomelas Crested Flycatcher
There are no East African breeding records for this species (P.B.
Taylor, pers. comm.). It is therefore worth noting a male, with much
enlarged gonads, collected in rain forest at Mbulumbulu on 16
November 1942. The date indicates a breeding season in the short
rains, c.f. Brown & Britton (1980) for T. albonotatus above.
Anthus lineiventris Striped Pipit
A nest and eggs found on 3 July 1958 near Bolisa, Kondoa Irangi, is
of special interest, as it is only the second breeding record from
East Africa, and the first record of eggs. The first published
record was also from Tanzania, from the Nguru Mts, Region D, where
J.S.S. Beesley recorded large young being fed in the nest in late
December 1966 (P.B. Taylor, pers. comm.). There were 3 eggs, of a
pale bluish-white ground colour, heavily spotted with sepia, with a
distinct band near the larger end.
Tchagra minuta Marsh Tchagra
A male was seen feeding an immature female, later collected, on 9 May
1934, at Chonwe, Uvidunda Mts, southern Kilosa, at 1550m. This is
the first breeding record from Region D in East Africa. Seven
records from Regions A and B in Brown & Britton (1980) indicate
breeding during the rains, as was the case with the Uvidunda record.
Lanius cabanisi Long-tailed Fiscal
As there is no June record in Brown & Britton (1980) for this species
in Region D it is worth recording a bird incubating on 28 June 1942
at Kileo, Pare district.
Nectarinia moreaui Moreau's Sunbird
The nest of this species appears still to be undescribed (P.B. Taylor
pers. comm.). On 26 December 1952 a nest was found on the edge of
rain forest at Masenge, Ukaguru Mts, Kilosa district, at 1800m.
That locality falls into Region D. The nest was a small domed purse,
attached to an upright stem of a small shrub, 2m from the ground.
There was an entrance hole near the top of the nest, which was built
almost entirely of dry grasses, with no embellishment. The nest con-
tained two half-fledged nestlings.
Ploceus bicolor Dark-backed Weaver
There are only two records for this species given by Brown & Britton
(1980), only one of which is from Region D, for the month of August.
Records of nest building on 25 May 1939, on the edge of forest in the
Nguru Mts, and a pair constantly entering and leaving a nest on the
edge of the Pugu Forest, Dar es Salaam, on 12 December 1953, suggest
breeding towards the end of the long and short rains.
Breeding of Tanzanian birds M5,
Ploceus jacksoni Golden-backed Weaver
While the breeding season of this species in Region D is very well
documented (Brown & Britton 1980), there are no records outside the
long rains. It is therefore worth noting two records from the
northern province, the first of a colony at Eluanata Dam on 7
January 1962 with eggs, and the second, on 20 February 1959, of an
active colony which could not be closely examined, at Lake Babati,
Mbulu district, which may lie in Region C.
Euplectes afer Yellow-crowned Bishop
Records in Brown & Britton (1980) from Region D suggest a breeding
season mainly in the long rains May-June. Only one record is given
for January and it is worth noting a nest with 2 eggs found on |
January 1962 at Eluanata Dam, northern Tanzania.
Euplectes nigroventris Zanzibar Red Bishop
The sixteen breeding season records from Region D given by Brown &
Britton (1980) show no well-defined season, although attention is
drawn to the fact that the months with more than one colony are all
in the rains.
The author, when investigating the breeding ecology of this species
and the Black-winged Red Bishop E. hordeaceus, which were nesting in
adjacent and intermingled territories (Fuggles-Couchman 1943),
recorded 14 nests of E. nigroventris containing eggs in the period
April-June, during the latter half of the long rains and into the
early dry season. Monthly totals of new nests with eggs were: April
5; May 4; June 5. These observations were made in Morogoro. Three
other colonies recorded elsewhere were found on 28 January at
Kilingali, Kilosa and on 24 and 30 April, both at Msasani, Dar es
Salaam.
While £. nigroventris will use small shrubs in which to build, as
in the case of the January and February records, and is therefore not
entirely dependent on the growth of tall grasses to the same extent
as E. hordeaceus, the breeding season of the former species does
appear to peak in the long rains.
Cryptospiza reichenovii Red-faced Crimson-wing
There are only two East African records for this species in Brown &
Britton (1980), both from Region B and both for the month of March.
A pair was watched building a nest in creepers overhanging a small
pool in the Lengopiron River, on the eastern edge of the Crater
Highlands in Region D, on 2 February 1945. The nest was about half-
completed and the dead leaves, dry grass and leaf skeletons used in
its construction gave it already the appearance of an old nest.
Linurgus Olivaceus Oriole Finch
There still appears to be no breeding record of this species in East
Africa, so that it may be worth drawing attention here to a male,
collected on 4 July in forest on Monduli Mt at 1850m, which had much
enlarged gonads (Fuggles-Couchman & Elliott 1946).
Serinus canicollis Yellow-crowned Canary
A male with much enlarged gonads was collected on 7 February 1946 on
26 Breeding of Tanzanian birds
the NE slopes of MtHanang at 2100m. Judging from the description
of the area covered by Region D in Tanzania (Brown & Britton 1980),
Mt Hanang almost certainly lies within Region C, and this record is
the first for this species from that Region.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The author is much indebted to Mr P.B. Taylor, organizer of the EANHS
Nest Record Scheme, for his help in identifying the most interesting
of the records submitted to him by the author, for checking the
sources of some of the records in Brown & Britton (1980), and for
other help in the preparation of this paper.
REFERENCES
BRITTON, H.A. 1981. E.A.N.H.S. Nest Record Scheme: 19805 Scopus:
i ZI=NS\he
FUGGLES-COUCHMAN, N.R. 1939. Notes on some birds of the eastern
province of Tanganyika Territory. Ibis January 1939: 76-106.
1943. A contribution to the breeding ecology
of two species of Euplectes (Bishop-birds) in Tanganyika Territory.
ido Swlyye NGAGE 3) = 3264
& ELLIOTT, H.F.1. 1946. Records and Field
Notes from NE Tanganyika Territory. Ibis July 1946: 327-347.
TAYLOR, P.B. 1983a. E.A.N.H.S. Nest Record Scheme: 1981. Scopus 5:
154-164.
1983b. E.A.N.H.S. Nest Record Scheme: 1982. Scopus 6:
W294 7s
THOMAS, D.K. 1960. Birds - Notes on Breeding in Tanganyika 1958-59.
Tanganyika Notes and Records 55: 225-243.
N.R. Fuggles-Couchman, Post House, High Street, Broughton, Stock-
bridge, Hants SO20 8AA, England.
(Received 15 January 1986)
ELSAMERE CONSERVATION CENTRE, NAIVASHA
Delightfully situated on the lake, 20} km along Moi South Lake Road
from the old Nairobi-Nakuru road, the Centre offers a splendid base
for ornithologists and others interested in conservation from which
to explore the area. The accommodation is extremely comfortable and
full board, with excellent 'farm cooking", is a very reasonable
KShs 250/- per person per night. A packed lunch can be provided
for those wishing to go off for the day.
Bookings by letter to The Warden, Box 4, Naivasha, or by phone:
Kongoni 2Y8 or Nairobi 742121.
27
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
PALAEARCTIC MIGRANTS OBSERVED IN THE OMO RIVER VALLEY,
SW EHIOPIA, DURING OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 1984
Observations of the Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris, the
Sprosser Luscinia luscinia and some other migrant passerines have
shown that these species migrate from Europe to SE Africa from Kenya
southwards, taking about 5 months for the journey. The migration
route of many of these birds seems to lie across the Red Sea coast,
and through Ethiopia and central and SE Kenya (see e.g. Pearson &
Backhurst 1976, Nikolaus 1983). The main Sudan immigration is during
August-September, but birds reach Kenya only during November and
December. The routes followed by these birds through Ethiopia and
their main areas of stopover during September, October and November
are still poorly known. Birds moving south from the Red Sea could
reach central Kenya either via the Ethiopian rift valley or through
the Western Ethiopian highlands. In the case of the Marsh Warbler in
particular, the importance of Western Ethiopia as an autumn stopover
area has been suggested (Dowsett-Lemaire 1979, Nikolaus & Pearson
1982). Migration from W Ethiopia to central Ethiopia could involve
heavy autumn movements as far west as the Omo River, and since I had
the opportunity of participating in an ecological survey along this
river from 5 October to 24 November 1984, I made a point of recording
and searching carefully for Palaearctic migrants. The river section
travelled was from Gibe Bridge (8:13 N, 37:35 E) to Carro (5:40 N,
35:50 E). The upper part of this was in the W highlands; the lower
part through semi-arid grasslands to Lake Turkana. Mist nets
(usually totalling about 72 m) were used on twelve of the 51 expe-
dition days, usually sited along hippotamus trails within 10 km of
the river.
Of the 54 birds caught only three were Palaearctic migrants, a
Sprosser on 6 October at 8:13 N, 37:35 E and a Nightingale Luscinia
megarhynchos and a Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus on 16
November at 5:50 N, 35:38 E. No migrant warblers, shrikes, flycat-
chers or nightingales were observed on walks of about 15km into the
highlands to the west and east of the river, or in the riverside
vegetation. Apart from Common Sandpipers Actitis hypoleucos, which
were abundant along the whole river, and small numbers of Wood Sand-
pipers Tringa glareola and Marsh Sandpipers T. stagnatilis, the only
Palaearctic birds seen were a single Little Stint Calidris minuta, a
lone Temminck's Stint C. temminckii at 6:40 N, 37:52 E, two flocks
of Eurasian Bee-eaters Merups apiaster in the W highlands during the
first week of October, single White Wagtail Motacilla alba and Grey
Wagtail M. cinerea at about 6 degrees N, and migrating birds of prey.
On 21 and 23 October, large flocks of birds of prey crossed the river
at 37 N, 37:11 E. As well as 100 Tawny Eagles Aquila rapax, 50
Greater or Lesser Spotted Eagles A. clanga/pomarina and 7 possible
Long-legged Buzzards Buteo rufinus were seen soaring on thermals and
moving south.
28 Short Communications
The seeming lack of Palaearctic migrant passerines along the Omo
River would imply that the main migration route from Ethiopian stop-
over areas to central Kenya must lie elsewhere, presumably further
east. If heavy movement were taking place overhead, appreciable
numbers of birds would be expected to come to ground in the attrac-
tive cover along the river. The search for migration routes used by
Palaearctic passerines across Ethiopia remains an inviting challenge.
Further surveys should perhaps be conducted in Sidamo, Ilbabar and
Kefa Provinces and in the rift valley.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Funds for the expedition were provided by the National Geographic
Society. Rafts were donated by Achilles, while tents and other
equipment were gifts of North Face Co. Special thanks to Paul Goriup
at ICPB for mist nets, G.C. Backhurst in Nairobi for banding equip-
ment, and David Pearson, Gerhard Nikolaus, and Don Turner for their
last-minute advice. Mist netting would have been impossible without
the helpVot Sz) Brttchtord. im waltcox and Mionczynski. Thanks too
to David Pearson for editorial help.
REFERENCES
DOWSETT-LEMAIRE, F. 1979. The imitative range of the song of the
Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris, with special reference to
imitations of African birds. Ibis 121: 453-468.
NIKOLAUS, G. 1983. An important passerine ringing site near the
Sudan Red Sea coast. Scopus 7: 15-18.
& PEARSON, D.J. 1982. Autumn passage of Marsh Warblers
Acrocephalus palustris and Sprossers Luscinia luscinia on the
Sudan Red Sea coast. Scopus 6: 17-19.
PEARSON, D.J. & BACKHURST, G.C. 1976. The southward migration of
Palaearctic birds over Ngulia, Kenya. Ibis 118: 78-105.
C. Dustin Becker, Orion Cottage, Coton Road, Grantchester, Cambridge
CB3 9NX, England. Received 23 January 1985, Revised 23 January 1986
Scopus 10: 27-28, March 1986
A SECOND RECORD OF JOUANIN'S PETREL BULWERIA FALLAX FROM KENYA
On 9 December 1985 my young son and friends rescued an all-dark,
medium-sized petrel from the attentions of a dog on the beach fron-
ting the Driftwood Club, Malindi, Kenya (3:13 S, 40:07 E). The bird,
although docile in the hand, appeared reasonably lively, so
measurements and photographs were taken quickly before releasing it.
The usual problems associated with the identification of petrels in
the field were, in this case, compounded by the close interest shown
by a topless Italian woman who commanded my attention with her
questions.
Short Communications 29
The description taken at the time was as follows: an all-black,
medium-sized petrel. The greater and median coverts appeared to have
slightly greyish tips, giving the bird a possible wingbar in flight.
The wings were long and narrow, the tail appeared short and wedge-
shaped. Bare parts: iris dark brown, bill black and complex, feet
pinkish flesh, three toes with black claws, dark sides to outer webs.
Measurements: overall length 31 cm, wingspan 83 cm, maximum width of
wing 8 cm, wing-length (carpal joint to tip of longest primary)
24.5 cm, length of foot 4.2 cm, tarsus 3.2 cm, projection of tail
beyond toes 3.5 cm, bill 3 cm.
The identification of the bird as a Jouanin's Petrel was based
primarily on the measurements and feet colouration following Harrison
(1983). Bulwer's Petrel Bulweria bulwerii, Wedge-tailed Shearwater
Puffinus pacificus, Mascarene Petrel Pterodroma aterrima and Herald
Petrel P. arminjoniana were all considered and dismissed, either
because of size or feet colouration. The only query in my mind on
the identification was that the tail did not appear to be as illus-
trated by Harrison (1983), the sole reference available at the time.
Harrison shows the tail as very long and narrow projecting well
beyond the feet. Feather wear may have been partly responsible for
the appearance of the Malindi bird.
Jouanin's Petrel is a little-known species. It is endemic to the
NW Indian Ocean but its breeding sites are unknown. Large concen-
trations occur off Kuria Muria in Arabia between March and August
and breeding may occur there. Dispersal areas are also unknown but
Harrison (1983) gives the limits as south to the equator and east to
58 degrees E. The only previous Kenya record was also from Malindi
and also in December (13th, 1953) when a female was captured alive
in seaweed (Britton 1980).
Unfortunately the 1985 bird could not fly off when released and
died overnight. It is now lodged as a specimen in the National
Museum, Nairobi.
REFERENCE
HARRISON, P. 1983. Seabirds an identification guide. Beckenham:
Croom Helm.
Bernard Boothroyd, c/o WLPU Consultants, Box 50569, Nairobi
Scopus 10: 28-29, March 1986 Received 19 February 1986
NOTES ON SOME UNUSUAL BIRDS OF THE BANGANGAT AREA,
SOUTH WEST SUDAN
Between July 1980 and January 1983 an ecological survey was carried
out in Bangangai Game Reserve, in south west Sudan, under the
auspices of the New York Zoological Society (Hillman 1983). The aim
of the survey was to gather as much information from the area as
possible to aid in its future conservation and development. Parti-
cular note was made of birds as these are the one aspect of the fauna
that is always evident in the thick habitat of the area.
30 Short Communications
Bangangai Game Reserve is situated on the Zaire-Sudan border,
4:52 N, 27:40 E, and is 500m above sea level. It is an area of
forest/savannah mosaic, being the extreme northern border of the
Zaire rain forest block. The rainfall averages 1400mm annually,
falling between March and October. Bangangai is situated between
east and west Africa, and between forest and savannah habitats. It
lies on the watershed between the Nile and Zaire rivers. Because of
its location, Bangangai has a great variety of mammals and birds that
are representative of both habitats and both sides of the continent.
Notes on the birds of Bangangai have previously been published by
Woodman (1936, 1952a, b) and Traylor & Archer (1982). Cave &
Macdonald (1955) give some birds specific to this area. G. Nikolaus
(pers. comm.) produced a mimeographed list of the birds in the
Bangangai area, but has not indicated how this was accumulated.
A total of 274 bird species have been recorded for the Bangangai
area by the authors given above and ourselves. Our own records con-
sist of accumulated observations on each species seen, including
habitat occupied, evidence for breeding, feeding, etc., during the
above period. Long periods were spent at saltlicks in the forest
waiting for Bongo Tragelaphus eurycerus during which birds were ob-
served. Mist-netting was also carried out enabling identification of
some species, particularly those identified otherwise only on the
basis of calls. Some Palaearctic migrants were also ringed.
The notes given here first relate to those species we have observed
in Bangangai for which there are no previous records in Sudan to the
best of our knowledge. These are followed by records of birds which
are of significant interest for the area.
Species new to Sudan. Previous distribution from Mackworth-Praed &
Grants @952, 51955):
Urotriochis macrourus Long-tailed Hawk
Previously recorded from Cameroon to Zaire and west Uganda. A pair
was seen entering a clearing at a saltlick in January 1982. A
curious kite-like whistle was heard - pi-wiyooo.
Columba albinucha White-naped Pigeon
Previously recorded from the Bwamba area of west Uganda, this bird is
distinct by the white nape patch. These were seen many times from
March to October. They were usually seen at saltlick clearings, in
the tall trees found around the edge. They were possibly roosting
there as they were most often seen in the evening and early morning.
They were usually in parties of 5 or more, and were seen with a group
of Green Pigeons Treron australis on one occasion. They were not
heard to call, but their flight was noisy.
Columba iriditorques Gabon Bronze-naped Pigeon
This is recorded from north and central Zaire, to Angola and Gabon.
In March a young bird came to camp, entering the houses and remaining
in the area for some days.
Bycanistes fistulator White-tailed Hornbill
Previously recorded in the Cameroon-Zaire-Uganda forest belt (Serle
Short Communications Si
1982), they were seen here in March and May. On one occasion they
were seen flying fast through the upper canopy of primary gallery
forest, and later in the forest/savannah patches which cover a large
part of the area. They were also seen in clearings in parties of
5-20).
Tockus hartlaubi Black Dwarf Hornbill
This is known from Zaire and Uganda, and was seen in Bangangai in
March, April and December. They were usually alone, sitting in the
upper canopy of tall forest trees, though one was seen in low mango
scrub near the track, and another near camp.
Ploceus tricolor Yellow-mantled Weaver
Previously recorded from north Angola, east Zaire and west Uganda,
these were seen nesting in March and May, in the top of a tree
(about 10m from the ground) at the edge of the forest. On the
first occasion 3 nests were used, and on the second 2 nests.
Malimbus erythrogaster Red-bellied Malimbe
Known previously from east Zaire and west Uganda. In October and
November Northern Masked Weavers Ploceus taeniopterus were nesting
in large numbers in a tree above camp. The Red-bellied Malimbe on
several occasions was seen to hang on to the nests and was then
mobbed by the weaver males outside and the weaver sitting in the nest.
The following species are felt to be significant in that they illus-
trate range extensions of birds which are already known to appear in
Sudan, or are rarely seen. Previous distribution is from Cave &
Macdonald (1955) |
Ciconia nigra Black Stork
This is an uncommon visitor to the Sudan, and was seen in Bangangai
in the months of March and December. Sightings were associated with
the grass burning.
Columba argquatrix Olive Pigeon
These are resident in the Imatongs area, and maybe in the Boma Hills,
as they are fairly common in mountain forests of southern Ethiopia.
They were seen at a saltlick clearing in March.
Merops persicus Blue-cheeked Bee-eater
This is a fairly common visitor in the north, especially between
Kosti and Lake No, but less common in the south. They were seen in
January and March in wooded grassland.
Phoeniculus aterrimus Black Wood-hoopoe
These are seen in Sudan, Zaire and Uganda, but may be overlooked as
they are shy and silent. One was seen in March in the upper canopy
near a saltlick.
Mirafra erythropygia Red-tailed Bush-lark
These appear on sporadic occasions from Darfur southwards, in dry
savannah. They were.seen in Bangangail in January on recently burnt
swamp, which was then very dry. They were also heard singing on the
wing.
32 Short Communications
Turdus piaggiae Abyssinian Ground Thrush
These are common residents in the Imatong mountains and Boma Hills
area. They inhabit quiet forests, undergrowth and streams. In
Bangangai they were found in similar habitat around saltlicks in
April.
Oriolus brachyrhynchus Western Black-headed Oriole
This bird does not appear in Cave & Macdonald (1955), but was re-
corded for Bangangai by Woodman (1952b). It was seen in December in
camp, where it was feeding from a hornet's nest.
Euplectes gierowii Black Bishop
This 1s an uncommon resident from Torit to Tambura, in grass along
rivers and elephant grass. In July a party was seen which included
females, in tall grass near a saltlick.
Euplectes ardens Red-collared Widowbird
This is common locally in wooded savannah near Torit, Yei and Boma.
In August a group were seen in which some males exhibited the red
collar while others lacked it.
Mandingoa nitidula Green-backed Twinspot
Cave & Macdonald (1955) report these from the forests of the Dongo-
tona Mts only. They were seen in Bangangai, in August, on a track
through the forest, near a group of redtail monkeys Cercopithecus
ascanius.
Vidua interjecta Northern Paradise Whydah
This species is known from the Aloma Plateau (Hall & Moreau 1970).
Bangangai, in December, a male was seen in breeding plumage.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We gratefully acknowledge considerable help and advice from Gerhard
Nikolaus.
REFERENCES
CAVE, F.A. & MACDONALD, J.D. 1955. Birds of the Sudan. Edinburgh:
Oliver and Boyd.
HILLMAN, J.C. 1983. An ecological survey and management recommenda-
tions for Bangangai Game Reserve, south west Sudan, with special
reference to the Bongo Antelope. New York: New York Zoological
Society.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1970. Birds of West Central
and Western Africa. Vol. 1. London: Longmans.
SERLE, W. 1982. Field Guide to the Birds of West Africa. London:
Collans:
TRAYLOR, M.A. & ARCHER, A.L. 1982. Some results of the Field Museum
1977 Expedition: £0) South Sudan) sSeopuss62 5-12.
WOODMAN, H.M. 1936. Rare birds of the Zande district. Sudan Notes
and Records 19: 184-188.
1952a, b. Some birds of the Zande district border forest
forests Parts I and Il. Sudan Wildlife and Sport 2: 23-272
Jesse C. and Sheila M. Hillman, Box 386, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Scopus 103) 29-32. March) 19/86 Final revision 20 February 1986 |
; Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the form
used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case of books, the
town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of works, which are cited
frequently, should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s) of the author(s) and date(s)
of publication should be given in the text in the normal way.
All contributions, which will be acknowledged, should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi.
WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
} National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al, 1971.
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds. Nairobi:
-EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa, Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al. 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African Passerine birds. London:
_ British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
_ London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa. 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands, London: Academic Press,
_ = Moreau 1966.
— — 1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems, London: Academic
_ Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNow, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds. London:
_ British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
This forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar year. Records of
Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
‘records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in early in the new year to
ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
through to any OS-C member (numbers inside front cover) in the hope that the bird(s)
may be seen by others. |
Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
June 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
CONTENTS
D.E. POMEROY. The Marabou in Kenya
STEPHANIE J. TYLER and S.J. ORMEROD. Interactions between resident
and migratory wagtails Motacilla spp. in Ethiopia - an
ecological conundrum
N.R. FUGGLES-COUCHMAN. Breeding records of some Tanzanian birds
Short Communications
C. DUSTIN BECKER. Palaearctic migrants observed in the
Omo River valley, SW Ethiopia, during October-
November !984
BERNARD BOOTHROYD. A second record of Jouanin's Petrel
Bulweria fallax from Kenya
JESSE C. and SHEILA M. HILLMAN. Notes on some unusual
birds of the Bangangai area, south west Sudan .
Requests for information
Threats to the White Stork on migration .
Ringed birds in Kakamega Forest
Notice
Elsamere Conservation Centre, Naivasha
This issue contains a brochure and order form for Volume II of The
Birds of Africa edited by Emil K. Urban, C. Hilary Fry and Stuart
Keith, to be published by Academic Press.
ISSN 0250-4162
O58
SCOPUS
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 10 (2) June 1986
SCOPUS
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues may be combined to allow
for long papers) by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the East African Natural History
Society. Subscriptions are payable to the OS-C Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turner
[tel. 48772] , Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates:
East African residents: KShs 100.00 (KShs 107.50 up-country).
Overseas, surface mail: Stg£6.00, US$12.00 or equivalent in convertible currency.
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Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Those »
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No. 2852601,
Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd., Market Branch, Box 30018, Nairobi.
Other members of the Ornithological Sub-Committee
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30197, Nairobi; house tel. 47041
G.C. Backhurst (Editor of Scopus and Ringing Organizer, Box 24702, Nairobi; house tel.
891419, office tel. 500508, 501301
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J.H. Fanshawe, U.K.;Mrs Cecilia Gichuki, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Dar es Salaam; Dr W.
Karanja, Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Nairobi; B.S. Meadows, U.K.; Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Kampala; |
J.F. Reynolds, U.K.; D.K. Richards, Nairobi; T. Stevenson, Baringo and Nairobi. |
NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS
Scopus welcomes original contributions in English on all aspects of the ornithology of |
eastern Africa. Contributions will be assessed by the members of the OS-C and/or by |
independent referees. The material published in Scopus is divided into ‘papers’ and ‘short |
communications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length. Authors of ‘papers’ |
are entitled to five copies of their contribution gratis. Extra copies, which will be supplied |
at cost, must be ordered when the MS is submitted. |
Contributions should be typed in 1% or double spacing on one side of the paper only, |
with wide margins all round, and should be submitted in duplicate. Exceptionally clear
hand-written MSS will be considered but these too should be sent in duplicate. Both English
and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is first mentioned, thereafter
only one should be used; they should be those of Birds of East Africa unless the speci
does not occur in that work.
Tables, which should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, NOT saves on |
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Scopus 10 (2), June 1986 4 wn AS (S28 133
TAXONOMIC NOTES ON SOME BIRDS FROM EAST
AFRICA ~
PRAH) (EClaneey
During the course of a research visit to the Sub-department of Orni-
thology, British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Tring, in September/October
1985, the cpportunity was. taken to study the subspecific taxonomy of
a wide range of Afrotropical bird species. Findings on some of the
species studied are now seen as being at variance with those adopted
and taken into the standard check-list for East Africa (Birds of East
Africa (Britton (Ed.) 1980) some years ago. In order to make these
new findings available to students, the following comments are sub-
mitted. While the bulk of the work was carried out at Tring, some
of the studies were pursued further in subsequent visits to the Musée
Royal de 1'Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, the Museum Alexander Koenig,
Bonn, and the Durban Natural History Museum.
Buccanodon whytii (Shelley) Whyte's Barbet
In the arrangement adopted in Birds of East Africa, nominate
B. whytii (Shelley, 1893): Zomba, southern Malawi, is listed as
occurring at localities in the Songea district of southeastern
Tanzania. The series at Tring, while not as replete as one would
wish, indicate that B. w. whytii is confined to southern Malawi,
perhaps extending marginally into adjacent Mozambique territory.
North of its range to the west of Lake Malawi it is replaced by B. w.
angoniensis Benson, 1964, which differs in having the ground colour
of the breast, belly and lateral surfaces saturated reddish olive-
brown, the feather tipping buffy. In B. w. whytii such parts are
pale buffish brown, the feathers fringed off-white.
The Songea population is referable to neither of the foregoing sub-
species. It lies closest to angoniensis but displays more extensive
metallic blue-black over the lower fore-throat, and the ventral ground
colour is dark earthen brown, lacking the reddish nuance present in
angoniensis, the feathers tipped white rather than buff. The tail
also ranges shorter in length: 46.5-51 (49.1), versus 52.5-54 mm in
B.w. whytii, in the three paratypes available, these collected by
I.H. Dillingham in July 1955. The population was named B. w. euroum
Clancey, 1956: Songea, southeastern Tanzania, and in East Africa
both this race and B. w. stresemanni Grote, 1935, and B. w.
terminatum Clancey, 1956, should be admitted. Nominate B. whytii
requires to be seen as extra-limital.
Pogoniulus chrysoconus (Temminck) Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird
In the SAOS Checklist of Southern African Birds (Clancy (Ed.) 1980),
the range of P. c. extoni (Layard,1871): Kanye, southeastern Botswana,
is restricted to the northwestern Orange Free State, the northeastern
Cape, southeastern Botswana and the Transvaal (on the plateau). The
population of southeastern Tanzania placed as extoni in Birds of
East Africa, with a range from Songea and Liwale north to the Mikumi
Scopus 10: 33-40, June 1986
34 Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa
NP requires to be referred to P. c. dryas Clancey & Lawson, 1961:
Panda, Inhambane district, southern Mozambique. This taxon differs
from extoni, in being smaller in size (wings of males and females
55.5-60, versus 60-65 mm). Over the dorsal surface the streaked
pileum lacks the heavy obfuscation of black present in extoni, and
has the light streaks over the back markedly whiter. Ventrally, the
fore-throat is paler yellow-green, and the rest of the underside is
whiter.
In the high west of Tanzania to the south of the nominate race,
the population is again not attributable to extoni but to P. c.
rhodesiae Grant, 1915: Chambezi Valley, northeastern Zambia. This
taxon again lacks the blackish clouding over the streaked crown.
In the main it resembles dryas but is longer-winged and has the
ventral surface generally tinged with greenish buff or light citrine.
The material in the collection at Tring supports the arrangement
of the subspecies as outlined in the SAOS Checklist. The races
occurring in East Africa should be as follows: P. c. chrysoconus,
P. c. rhodesiae and P. c. dryas.
Cercotrichas barbata (Hartlaub & Finsch) Bearded Scrub Robin
Over ten years ago the present writer (Clancey 1974) demonstrated
the presence of geographical variation in C. barbata warranting the
arrangement of the populations into two subspecies in north/south
groupings. In the collection of the British Museum (Nat. Hist.),
Tring, are several specimens taken at the corrected type-locality
Caconda, Huila, Angola, by J. de Anchieta, who also shot the
original material on which Hartlaub & Finsch based their description
in 1870. This sample and the balance of the material at Tring
comports with earlier findings that the northern populations
ranging from northern Angola (in Cuanza Norte, Malange, Lunda,
etc.), southern Zaire, adjacent Zambia and western Tanzania (Tukuyu
northwest to Kigoma (at Busondo and Nzilandagaza), vide Birds of
East Africa p. 135), are separable from the southern, more mesic,
ones. They average browner, less grey, above, and over the fore-
throat the grey lateral surfaces are more broadly darker greyish.
Ventrally, the breast, sides and flanks are darker and redder, the
white over the belly constricted, and that present tinged buff. The
under tail coverts are also buffy. These more saturated elements
were characterized as C. b. thamnodytes Clancey, 1974: Bitale, 29 km
north of Kigoma, Western Province, Tanzania, the range of which
taxon is centred on the southern sector of the drainage fan of the
Zaire River, ranging marginally into East Africa.
Cercotrichas quadrivirgata (Reichenow) Eastern Bearded Scrub Robin
Clancey (1960) showed that the subspecies C. g. rovumae (Grote, 1921):
described from the headwaters of the Rovuma River, southeastern
Tanzania, was separable from nominate C. quadrivirgata (Reichenow,
1879): Kipini, lower Tana River, Kenya, on both colour and mensural
grounds. Later, Benson & White (1962) contested these findings,
using material in the collection at Tring and from other centres.
During a visit to the Los Angeles County Museum in May 1979, I
Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa 35
examined, albeit briefly, the large East African series of this scrub
robin housed in that centre, while in September 1985, I examined the
series in the British Museum (Nat. Hist.) at Tring.
In their 1962 contribution, Benson & White failed to heed the
caveat that in assessing size variation in the present scrub robin,
care should be exercised in seeing that only correctly sexed and
fully adult specimens are used. In my 1960 paper I resuscitated
C. gq. rovumae, differentiating it from the nominate race on the basis
of great size, rather darker (actually warmer brown) upper-parts and
redder, more saturated, buff lower fore-throat and breast. A
re-examination of the size parameter results in the following:
C. q. quadrivirgata wing-lengths (mm)
Coastal Kenya 9 males 1.6281; C2881) 5-SD 2214
2 females TAB T75
Somalia 1 male 79
C. gq. rovumae wing-lengths (mm)
Easterm Zimbabwe 7 males 82-88 (84.7), SD 1.88
5 females 46=824(7922)..5Di. 2538
Malawi 11 males 81-59 (8329) -4SDe 254
6 females £6=80 (C1825). 2S) _1 274
Mozambique 5 males Sl Soe wGo4ans) 45D e 3-20
4 females $6=79 C78 .1) 24S). 1.43
Eastern Tanzania 5 males 86—83.252 082.0). 0SDs hia I
4 females h=IIRCTT 58). -SD 40484
In the case of tail-length (mm):
males of C. gq. quadrivirgata ranged 6/-/2, while females were 64-67.
males of C. gq. rovumae ranged 72-84, females 68-74.
Specimens with tails shorter than the minima given have been assessed
as retaining juvenile rectrices.
The extensive material in the Los Angeles County Museum collection
showed that the population of coastal Kenya differed from birds
occurring further south in East Africa not only in being smaller but
also in having the dorsal colouration more earthen and less warm
brown. Below, the medio-ventral plane was more extensively white
and the breast band paler buff. While material in fresh condition
from Somalia has been extremely limited, that seen suggests that
there is no valid difference between the population of the coastal
regions of the southwest (C. g. erlangeri (Reichenow, 1905): lower
Juba River, between Bardera and Umfudu, southwestern Somalia), and
that of the Lower Tana River (topotypical of C. q. quadrivirgata),
and the indications are that erlangeri should be merged into the
nominate race, the southern limits of range of which lie in the low-
lands of northeastern Tanzania. Populations occurring south of this
and also in the interior of East Africa as far north as Voi in Kenya
will now become C. gq. rovumae.
36 Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa
In the first of their important contributions to the ornithology of
Tanzania, Ripley & Heinrich (1966) described C. gq. brunnea from west
of Lake Manyara, at 03:35S5, 35:50E, on two specimens. While I am
unable to comment constructively on the validity of brunnea, the
pattern of variation now determined for the species in East Africa
presupposes that this taxon may be part of C. q. rovumae. The well-
differentiated C. q. greenwayi (Moreau, 1938): Mafia Island, Tanzania
with much of the rufous in the ventral and facial surfaces replaced
by white and with greyer upper surfaces, is confined to its type-
locality island and Zanzibar.
Clytospiza monteiri (Hartlaub) Brown Twinspot
This attractive species is currently treated as monotypic, C. m.
ugandensis (van Someren, 1921): Masindi, Uganda, being considered a
synonym of C. monteiri (Hartlaub, 1860): Bembe, Congo district,
northern Angola (cf. Traylor (1968)). Material studied in 1985 in
the centres at Tring, Tervuren and Bonn indicates that the species
is divisible into northern and southern races, the long series in the
Musée Royal de l'Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, showing this variation
more clearly than that in the other two museums. In the population
present in the savanna regions lying immediately to the north of the
Lower Guinea Forest to reach the southern Sudan, Uganda and Kenya,
the grey of the entire head in males is paler than in the populations
present south of the forest. In addition, the gular streak is a
brighter rose-red, while the ground colour to the breast is lighter
red-brown (about Antique Brown (Ridgway (1912)) and rather more amply
mottled with white spots. The female of the northern elements is
also paler, lighter grey over the head and with the fore-throat
more extensively white. There is no difference in size.
While the original description of ugandensis (van Someren (1921))
is not in accord with the true nature of the geographical variation,
being simply descriptive of individual variation, the name requires
to be adopted for the northern subspecies, the range of which
extends in the east to East Africa in Uganda and western Kenya.
Cryptospiza reichenovii (Hartlaub) Red-faced Crimson-wing
In Birds of East Africa only the race C. r. australis Shelley, 1896:
Mt Chiradzulu, southern Malawi, is admitted for East Africa, the form
Cryptospiza ocularis Sharpe, 1902: Rwenzori Range, Uganda, being
tacitly treated as synonymous, as in Traylor (1968). A critical
study of the material of this crimson-wing in the collection at Tring
suggests that there was a measure of justification for Sharpe's
naming of the Rwenzori population in the first place, but that if
ocularis is not now to be recognized, the western Ugandan and
adjacent Zairean birds must be placed in nominate C. reichenovii
(Hartlaub, 1874): Bondongo, Cameroun, rather than with australis.
A note made at the time the comparisons were effected reads: "A little
paler below than most Cameroun C. r. reichenovii, but the range of
individual variation in the two populations is such as to unite them
taxonomically."
Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa 37.
Measurements of wing-lengths (mm) are as follows:
6 males from Uganda 52—57..054.7)5, SD. 1.78
2 females from Uganda 5254 56
10 males from Cameroun 53-56 (53.6), SD 0.94
4 temales from Cameroun 52-56 (53.5), SD 1.77
Arising from this study, nominate C. reichenovii requires to have
its range greatly extended east to East Africa to include the
western Ugandan and adjacent Zairean population. All other East
African representatives of the species remain as of the race C. r.
australis. C. ocularis Sharpe is now, accordingly, lodged in the
synonymy of C. r. reichenovii.
Hypargos niveoguttatus (Peters) Peters’ Twinspot
The subspecies H. n. macrospilotus Mearns, 1913: Meru Forest, Kenya
(Meru NP), is the only one admitted in Birds of East Africa, yet, as
shown by Clancey (1961), the variation of subspecific relevance in
central and eastern Africa is infinitely more complex. Study of
material at Tring from eastern aspects of the range in East Africa
reveals that two races occur in this region. A neatly prepared
fearese com ME Endau, Kitui, at 01:16S, 38:35E, which lies
immediately south of the type-locality of macrospilotus, highlights
the fact that coastal females from Kenya and Tanzania differ from
the said race in having a darker, more crimson, less orange-red wash
to the entire plastron, the rest of the venter much darker, more
blackish, grey, with little or no buffish tinge, and with the white
spotting heavier. Differences exhibited by males were considered of
small taxonomic significance. H. n. macrospilotus requires to be
considered an interior race, ecologically xeric, and probably
restricted to the region of lower Mt Kilimanjaro to Voi, locally
north to Kibwezi, Mt Endau and Meru in Kenya (vide Birds of East
Africa, p. 223). The birds from the more humid coastal areas are
referable to H. n. baddeleyi Wolters, 19/72: Nacala, northern
Mozambique, which has a range from coastal Kenya and eastern Tanzania
south to northern Mozambique to the north of Zambezia. It was named
on 4 skins from Nacala and 6 from Mikindani, in Tanzania (Wolters
£1972)
The population of the interior savanna regions of Tanzania is the
race H. n. idius Clancey, 1961: Kihambwe R., Kibondo, northwestern
Tanzania, in which the female resembles that of macrospilotus but
differs in having the red over the lateral head extending up to the
temporal regions to form post-ocular streaks. This taxon is recog-
nized by Traylor in Peters' Checklist (1968), but Wolters felt it
was based on individual variation, which is not so. In the country
to the east of Lake Tanganyika from Mahari Mt to Ufipa in southwestern
Tanzania idius is replaced by H. n. centralis Clancey, 1961: Baraka,
Shaba, Zaire, in which race females do not have a red post-ocular
streak, but males show a major extension of red to the hind neck, and
over the venter the red of the plastron is bled into the black and
white dotted surface. In the continuation of Peters' Check-list
Traylor (1968) merged centralis with macrospilotus, which move, I
38 Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa
believe, was incorrect in face of the good characters exhibited by
the population. Furthermore, idius separates centralis from both
macrospilotus and baddeleyi, so that merging the two taxa is highly
undesirable. Four races of the present twinspot require to be
admitted for East Africa: H. i. baddeleyi, H. n. macrospilotus,
Ho nee adrus and Hens jeentralasr:
Plocepasser mahali Smith White-browed Sparrow Weaver
In Birds of Fast Africa the race P. m. stridens Clancey, 1968:
Kilosa, eastern Tanzania, was not accepted because of a paucity of
comparative material. While limited, the series of specimens in the
collection of the British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Tring, of both P. m.
pectoralis (Peters, 1868): Inhambane = Tete district, southern
Mozambique, and P. m. stridens supports recognition of the latter.
As seen on the specimens at Tring, stridens is darker and more
earthen, less sandy or buffish, brown over the dorsum. Ventrally
it is clearer white, lacking the subtle buff tinge of pectoralis,
while the breast spotting is both blacker and heavier. The size is
also greater; all these factors are in line with:the findings of
Clancey (1968) reached years ago on other material.
P. m. stridens ranges from eastern Tanzania, where uncommon, south
to the interior of Mozambique north of the Zambezi River, and
southern Malawi to the east of the rift. P.m. pectoralis replaces
it in the dry Tete district of Mozambique, extending to the southern
and southeastern aspects of Zambia and northern and northeastern
Zimbabwe. Further west in south-central Africa, pectoralis is
replaced by P. m. terricolor Clancey, 1968, described from the mid-
Okavango River.
Emberiza flaviventris Stephens Golden-breasted Bunting
In Britton (1980) the race of the present bunting occurring in East
Africa is given as E. f. kalaharica Roberts, 1932: Tsotsoroga Pan,
northern Botswana - a locality in the northeastern periphery of the
South West Arid Zone visited during the Vernay-Lang Kalahari
Expedition of 1930. As shown in the SAOS Checklist (Clancey Ed.
(1980)), p. 295, kalaharica ranges from northeastern South West
Africa (including the Caprivi Strip), southern Angola and Botswana
to Zimbabwe, the Transvaal and the northern Cape to northeastern
Swaziland and Mozambique between the Limpopo and Zambezi Rivers.
East African populations of £. flaviventris are referable to E. f.
carychroa Clancey, 1968: Langata Forest, Nairobi, Kenya, differenti-
ated initially in Clancey (1967). In freshly assumed dress, E. f.
carychroa differs from kalaharica in the adult male having the back
more saturated red-brown, the feather-fringes dull buffish olive
rather than light greyish. On the ventral surface, the breast—band
is as dark as in nominate £. flaviventris Stephens, 1815: Cape of
Good Hope, but the major criterion is that carychroa has the white
flanks washed with rust-colour, which overlay is lacking in
kalaharica. In size carychroa and kalaharica are alike.
Examination of such material as exists in the collection of the
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Tring, confirms the differences outlined
Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa 39
above for the East African race, which has a wide range in the equa-
torial belt of the Afrotropics, extending from southern Sudan and
East Africa, south to northern Mozambique and Malawi, and west,
south of the Lower Guinea Forest to southern Zaire, much of Zambia
and central and northern Angola.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks are extended to the following colleagues for the provision of
facilities and access to collections: P.R. Colston (British Museum
(Nat. Hist.), Tring), Dr A. Prigogine (Institut Royal des Sciences
Naturelles de Belgique, Brussels), Dr. M. Louette (Musée Royal de
l'Afrique Centrale, Tervuren), Dr H.E. Wolters (Museum Alexander
Koenig, Bonn), Dr R.W. Schreiber (Los Angeles County Museum), and Dr
J.M. Mendelsohn (Durban Natural History Museum). I am also grateful
to Dr D.J. Pearson for joining me in looking at some of the issues
discussed above during the course of meetings at the British Museum
at Tring.
REFERENCES
BENSON, C.W. & WHITE, C.M.N. 1962. Erythropygia quadrivirgata and
allied species, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 82:
aah Se
fePrron- Pon. (Fd.) 1980. Birds of East Africa. Nairobi: East Africa
Natural History Society.
CLANCEY, P.A. 1956. On the races of Buccanodon whytii (Shelley), in
Misc. Tax. Notes on African Birds VI, Durban Museum Novitates 4:
245-251.
1960. Notes on geographical variation in the South
African Sub-continental Erythropygia quadrivirgata (Reichenow) popu-
lations, in Misc. Tax. Notes on African Birds XV, Durban Museum
Novitates 6: 36-38.
1961. The races of Peters' Twinspot Hypargos
niveoguttatus (Peters), in Misc. Tax. Notes on African Birds XVI,
Durban Museum Novitates 6: 97-103.
1967. Formal descriptions of four new races of African
birds, in Misc. Tax. Notes on African Birds XXV, Durban Museum
Novitates 8: 113-114.
1968. On geographical variation in the White-browed
Sparrow-weaver Plocepasser mahali Smith of Africa, Bonner Zoologi-
sche Beitrage 19: 257-268.
1974. Variation in the Bearded Scrub Robin Erythropygia
barbata (Hartlaub & Finsch), 1870, in Misc. Tax. Notes on African
Birds XXXIX, Durban Museum Novitates 10: 95-98.
(Ed.) 1980. SAOS Checklist of Southern African Birds.
Johannesburg: Southern African Ornithological Society.
RIPLEY, S.D. & HEINRICH, G. 1966. Comments on the avifauna of
Tanzania, 1, Postilla 96: 1-45.
40 Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa, New Publications
RIDGWAY, R. 1912. Color standards and color nomenclature. Washington
DEG Se iclae eitliclayone -
TRAYLOR, M.A. 1968 in Peters' Checklist of birds of the world 14.
Cambridge, Mass.: Museum of Comparative Zoology.
VAN SOMEREN, V.G.L. 1921. Hypargus monteiri ugandensis, subsp. nov.,
Bulletin Of Che British Ornienolloguses, eLabe 4 ello.
WOLTERS, H.E. 1972. Aus der ornithologischen Sammlung des Museums
Alexander Koenig. II. Bonner Zoologische Beitraége 23: 87-94.
P.A. Clancey, Fernleigh Gardens, 8 Lambert Road, Morningside, Durban
4001, South Africa
(Received 27 November 1985)
NEW OSC PUBLICATIONS
Check-list of the birds of Kenya. Second Edition, May 1986.
An up-to-date and improved version of the best-selling list which was
first produced in 1981 based on Birds of East Africa. In this new
typeset edition seven 'boxes' are provided for each species for re-
cording 'ticks'; species added or removed since Birds of East Africa
are fully referenced in foot-notes.
Cost (surface mail included):
to Kenya: KShs.20/-; rest (of tEhe worlid fe lomullo pease
Airmail rates on application.
Birds of the Kampala area - Scopus Special Supplement No. 2, by Dr
Margaret Carswell.
Uniform with the first Special Supplement (Birds of Somalia by Ash and
Miskell) this book appears at an opportune time now that Uganda is be-
ginning to get back on its feet after years of unrest. The wonderful
birds are still there just waiting to be observed, all the better with
the aid of this book!
Cost (surface mail included):
to Scopus subscribers: in Kenya: KShs. 85/-; elsewhere: £4 or US$6
for non-subscribers: KShs. 100/- (in Kenya), £5 or US$7.50 in the
rest of the world
Airmail rates on application.
Check-list of the birds of Tanzania.
A straight reprint (but on better quality paper) of this 34 pp. list.
The first printing of February 1982 has sold out completely.
Cost (surface mail included):
to Kenya: KShs. 20/-; rest of the world £1 or US$1.50
Airmail rates on application.
Tanzanian residents contact Neil Baker, Box 5272, Dar es Salaam, or
phone 23268, 32059
All the above titles are obtainable from D.A. Turner, Box 48019,
Nairobi, Kenya as is information on airmail charges.
Short Communications 4]
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
SIGHTINGS OF LONG-TOED STINTS CALIDRIS SUBMINUTA AT NAIVASHA
Long-toed Stints Calidris subminuta were netted on three occasions
in the rift valley (at Naivasha and Nakuru) between 1969 and 1974
PSaeknurse ¢ britcon 1969, EANHS OS-C 1977, Britton 1980). During
the past two years there have been further sight records from Dandora,
Malindi and Naivasha (East African Bird Reports for 1984 and 1985 in
press). Since no local account of the field characters of this rare
but apparently regular visitor to Kenya has appeared, it seems worth
giving details of birds which I found at Naivasha early in 1985.
Late on 2 March 1985 I flushed a stint from drying soft mud on the
SE shore of Lake Naivasha about | km north of Safariland Club. It
was dark brown above with a noticeable broad blackish rump centre,
ania dtkew attention with a short but rather loud call, a single churrp
not unlike that of a Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea but more
abrupt. It disappeared behind a bank of papyrus with a curious
wavering flight, and could not be found again. About midday on 20
March, at precisely the same place, I noted a browner stint associa-
Eempeloosely wath a party of feeding Little Stints C. minuta. I ob-
served it through binoculars in good light at 15-20 m and was able
to see details of plumage, head and bill shape, and leg colour.
Although fairly tame, it twice took to the wing, but was easily
relocated. When flushed it gave the same short call and showed the
Same erratic flight and prominent dark rump as the bird seen three
weeks earlier, which I presumed to have been the same individual.
An inconspicuous short wingbar and pale (but not white) outer tail
were noted. On one occasion it rose quite high before flying about
and eventually landing only 100 m away. I identified the bird as a
Long-toed Stint in winter plumage. Details noted whilst it was
feeding were as follows: slightly smaller than accompanying winter
plumage Little Stints, head apparently smaller, neck relatively
longer and general build less compact; upperparts darker and browner
than Little Stint, these and wing coverts more heavily mottled; top
of head dark from forehead to nape; dark mark through eye, contrasting
with quite prominent pale supercilium, which extended well back
(Little Stints had paler, less distinct head marking and were broadly
whitish on forehead); bill appeared marginally finer and longer than
in Little Stint, with a suggestion of a downward droop at the tip;
fine streaking was quite noticeable across the breast; the legs were
pale brownish, and long toes were in fact obvious when the bird
lifted its feet; feeding action was similar to that of Little Stint,
but carriage more crouched-looking, legs rather more flexed.
I found another unusual stint on the northern shore of Lake
Naivasha on | May. With the lake level rising fast and sedge growth
beginning, a few hundred migrant waders (mainly Ruffs Philomachus
Ppugnax, Curlew Sandpipers and Little Stints) were concentrated in a
Single marshy area. The bird was flushed at a few metres range
showing rich dark brown mottled upperparts, a broad dark rump and a
42 Short Communications
short wingbar. It gave the distinctive churrp call familiar from
experience with the March bird. It was flushed three more times from
low marshy vegetation, but could not be seen on the ground. Each
time it called and towered, then flew around high and rather errati-
cally for a minute or two before landing. It did not associate at
all with the other waders in the area. Although head details and
leg colour were not seen I have no doubt that this was also a Long-
toed Stint. At the time concerned, the March site some 10 km away
was flooded and devoid of waders. This later sighting could easily
therefore have involved the original bird.
REFERENCES
BACKHURST, G.C. & BRITTON; P.L. 1969. A record of Caizdersesubminaed
from Kenya. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 89: 121.
EANHS OS-C 1977. Some recent records of Palaearctic Birds in Kenya
and Tanzania. Seopus ls 3945),
D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry, P.O. Box 30197, Nairobi.
Scopus 10: 41=42, June 1986 Received 6 March 1986
RED-NECKED PHALAROPES PHALAROPUS LOBATUS OFF THE COAST
OF SOMALIA AND KENYA
This communication reports sightings of Red-necked Phalaropes made by
my friend Nautical Officer F. Scharffetter during voyages along the
Somali and Kenyan coasts in 1983 and 1985. Mr Scharffetter was a
member of the crew during these voyages and is an experienced bird-
watcher. His observations of phalaropes are listed below: the first
number given refers to the location of the sighting(s) as shown on
the map (Fig. 1); the numbers after the date are the numbers of
phalaropes.
Southbound
| =o NOVe NI OSe Gas aoe
2.6" Nov? 19832 2062008 Y5e+" 2 NOSE ONT 2e+ a0
3. 6 Nov 1983: 08:00: few hundred on current edge
4a: 6 Nov 19832262005" 10
5. OP Now 1983s Ply 2002" S0
6. SeNow 1983 2e45 eset iG
7.°9 Nove 19832925) 492 4 2) + 28 \@ater: depth’ 240m)
8. 10 Nov 1983: 4 (depth 80 m)
G2 1O0eNoy 198s 35
Northbound
10. 15 Nowal9s3e 12955 18 (depen 100) m)
1S te Novellas
12. V6yNov 193833 9
13.2916" Nove 19835 112002" (depehe 1s0%m)
4. 16 Nov 198327 16:00: 3000-5000
15. 17 Nov 1983: 16:00-17:00: about 3000 mostly in flocks of up to 300
Short Communications
1 Cape =e
: GrUCE a (Our AD ESN - Guardafui
DJIBOUTI : 14,15 ee
‘ Nig
| Ras Hafun
aay : y)
30 ull.
ETHIOPIA
INDIAN
Mogadishu ONCE AN:
9
+ Malindi
Fig. 1. Map showing sites of sightings of Red-necked Phalaropes
4a Short Communications
Southbound
16. This is a seismically active area, 48 km NE/SW by 15 km NW/SE,
which was surveyed between 4 and 29 January 1985. Bird obser-
vations were helped by the vessel's slow speed of only 5 knots
(c. 9 km/h) but hampered by very rough weather with continuous
winds of force 5-6 (c. 30-50 km/h). The phalaropes often
appeared to be flying from south to north, and this direction
was also noted during the night observations with the aid of the
ship's searchlights. Numbers of phalaropes seen were as follows:
p &
Neng Heli, Cas
iene Z
ies Celis @)
Ofelys I]
Lilizing 3)
12th: 1+6+8+4
Ache lochs) 6 (Ons at. Mogadishu)
NWOeng Wise Ye ste 5
l7th:).25 + 1434 7 + 8 + 5°94 20; at night: 5) +:3906) ono
+ |
liSithyo Set alo Omch eomct cet il
NVQs ale wareaies O a 5 a |
20 hee
2st 3s at night: \l 7 + let Sie 1 2eon ees
22nd: at night: | +y le +9254 Os) H6n 42 Sie
23rd 30
24th: 1 +.125 at nights: 3 + 8 + 20 + 9 4°12 4) 72a opie
+18 +8 +11+7+ 6+ 11 + 3
Moye yO Wo) ae Ss ene Gqutees Sce Boar GC arog ap Siar 2
Z26the Weck Sera tena oh
27th, 28th: (0 - in Mogadishu)
AEN (3 se il se. ihe
Northbound
17. 2 Feb, 1985: 13 + 44+ 7 4+ 6 + 21 +.2 + 34+ 14 4 (325 ee
+ 6 +3 + 9+ 16 +°8 + 6) +535 -eGn eee
18. 2 Feb 1985: some flocks.
During 3 and 4 February in the Gulf of Aden no phalaropes were seen.
Most phalaropes were seen near the coast or at the edge of the
coastal shelf and the deep sea where the water is turbulent (caused
by the meeting of the East African Coast Current and the Equatorial
Current).
Heinrich Schiemann, D- 7988 Wangen im Alg&éu, Kirchstr. 15, West
Germany Received 20 August 1985
Scopus 10: 42-44, June 1986
Short Communications 45
THE ROSEATE TERN STERNA DOUGALLII ARIDEENSIS ON ARIDE ISLAND
SEYCHELLES: NOTES ON THE 1984 SEASON
The Aride population of Roseate Terns was first monitored for the
whole of its breeding cycle in 1978 (Warman 1979). Observations have
Since been made by 0. Volcere who came to the island in 1979 as
Assistant Manager, but there has been no written report. The
following qualitative observations represent only the second record
of the breeding cycle.
Colonies
On Aride, Roseate Terns breed in separate sub-colonies around which
they are based until shortly before they leave the island, when they
congregate on rocks near the sea. These colonies do not overlap with
the colonies of any other species. In 1984, nine distinct sub-
colonies were distinguished, which were roughly in the same sites as
recorded by Warman (1979). However, it appears that the boundaries
of the sites have been extended considerably, so that some sites are
almost adjacent. Seven of the sub-colonies occupied sites under a
canopy of Pisonia woodland. Shaded, woodland sites seem to be
preferred, and it was these which had increased most in area and were
first to be occupied. Only two of the sites were on 'grassland' and
account for, at most, one quarter of the total Roseate Tern popula-
tion. Positions of sub-colonies vary slightly from year to year.
Breeding plumage
One major discrepancy was found between the observations made by
Warman and our own. Warman comments that at the time of courtship,
Bileberds bavesblack bills; the first traces of red on the bill only
appearing after the eggs had been laid and incubation was proceeding;
by the time the chicks were fledged and adults preparing for depar-
ture, the bills were completely red. According to observations made
in 1984 it appears that the red colouration only occurs when the
birds are in breeding condition. This is an important distingui-
shing feature of the sub-species arideensis.
Gaeaeeival at Aride, the birds had black legs and bills. Both
legs and bill had turned completely red by the time egg-laying
Started. Red legs, feet and bills persisted throughout the incuba-
tion period and for a considerable time after hatching. Only when
the young are nearly fledged do the bills and legs of adult birds
start to turn black. By the time of departure from Aride, bills and
legs had reverted to all-black, contrary to the statement made by
Warman. In addition, the breast feathers have a pink colouration
during breeding, which also disappeared by the time the birds left
the island.
Breeding cycle
24 April Very large numbers of birds arrived during the night
and were heard calling at dawn. Some days previously,
groups of birds had started to congregate on rocks.
8 May By this time colonies were occupied and the birds were
very excitable and easily disturbed by observers.
46 Short Communications
19 May Considerable numbers of eggs had been laid at woodland
sites, fewer at grassland sites which were occupied last.
13 June First eggs hatched at woodland sites in the west of the
island.
21 June First eggs hatched at grassland sites.
7 July Many chicks starting to fly, but still within the con-
fines of the colony. Parents sometimes took a while to
find their chick on return to the colony. Many disputes
were observed between adults returning with fish and
those remaining in the colony. Birds seemed almost
oblivious to the presence of observers, but both adults
and young were very argumentative amongst themselves.
227 Sealy; Nearly all chicks flying but still remaining near nest
sites. By the end of July, some birds began to congre-
gate on rocks in preparation for departure.
3 August A few birds remained at nest sites, but the colonies were
much diminished, more than half the birds having already
Veter
15 August No adult birds seen. Four young birds remained at one
site, in poor condition, apparently having been aban-
doned, and they died shortly after.
Mortality
Variation between sites
Very few dead young were found at sites under the Pisonia canopy.
The number of dead chicks was much greater at the largest grassland
site, where there was no shade. This could partly be due to
desertion by parents, as adults leave roughly at the same time,
regardless of whether chicks are ready to go. As these chicks were
the last’to hatch, death as a result of desertion would be expected
to be higher. However, Sooty Terns Sterna fuscata nesting nearby
also suffered higher chick mortality, so it seems more likely that
death was due to over-exposure to the sun.
Predation
Human activity now has a minimal effect in that no eggs are collected;
disturbance by island staff is kept to a minimum, to allow for the
particular sensitivity of Roseate Terns, so that chances of egg-
predation by skinks is also reduced. Aride has a small resident
population of Barn Owls Tyto alba, and whilst no definite information
has been obtained as to the number of Roseates taken, this is
probably not significant.
Accidental deaths
A small number of adult birds were found hanging between forks of
Pisonia branches. Some deaths occurred early in the season due to
immobility resulting from sticking to Pisonia fruits; two birds were
found affected in the central part of the island, but none at sites
in the west where the canopy is high and birds can fly in and out
without danger of entanglement. No chicks were affected in this way.
Short Communications 47
Ticks
A number of chicks were infested with ticks within a week of hatching
and later some deformation of feet was observed. Tick infestation
was lower in 1984 than in previous years and only a small proportion
of the population was affected.
Conservation and management
It seems certain that the Aride population of Roseate Terns has
increased from 1978 to 1984, and as long as the future of the island
reserve remains secure, the outlook is favourable. Annual monitoring
is extremely important for this species, as numbers and breeding
success vary considerably from year to year. The birds are renowned
for their sensitivity, and have been known to desert eggs and chicks
for no apparent reason. It is vital that disturbance is kept to a
minimum.
The most suitable habitat for the species appears to be mature
woodland, the shade afforded compensates for deaths caused by Pisonia
fruit entanglement or hanging. This also will vary from year to year,
so further study is needed. Pineapples, which at one time threatened
to take over nest sites, are now being shaded out by woodland, so
this is no longer a danger to the habitat. The accidental import of
rats must at all costs be prevented, and all incoming goods carefully
scrutinized. Disturbance by low-flying aircraft is rare.
No quantitative observations have been made, neither have any
ringing operations been carried out, and it is doubtful whether the
disturbance involved is merited.
REFERENCE
WARMAN, S.R. 1979. The Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii arideensis on
Aride Island, Seychelles. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists'
Ginp-99- 124-128.
Susan M. Tyzack and O. Volcere, Aride Island, via Praslin, Seychelles
Scopus 10: 45-47, June 1986 Received 4 February 1986
NOTES ON THE SPECKLED PIGEON COLUMBA GUINEA IN NW SOMALIA
Ash & Miskell (1983) have drawn attention to the recent spread of the
Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea in Somalia, and the purpose of this
note is to record its status in NW Somalia in 1958, and attempt to
explain various flock movements which were noted.
Distribution
By 1958 this bird was quite common in the townships as far east as
Sheikh and Burao, breeding freely in unused house chimney pots in
Hargeisa during April, October and November (i.e. during the rains);
Archer & Godman (1937) describe the bird as being "confined to one
area, Gebileh - El Birdaleh - Birdah - Buramo (= Borama) on the
Somali-Abyssinian border". They also remark that at Gebileh it
48 Short Communications
inhabited the sandstone cliffs of the tugs (= wadis), feeding out
in the nearby jowari (millet) fields during the day and returning to
drink in the tug pools at 15:30. Elsewhere this bird is well-known
as a commensal of man, almost domesticated in its use of man's
buildings (Britton 1980, Goodwin 1967); and it has also acquired
this trait in Somalia, enabling it to exploit an otherwise unused
niche aided by a new food supply, and so expand its range.
Local movements/Roosting
Two types of local movement were recognized at Hargeisa, the first of
which was ascribed to a winter feeding movement in which the birds
were noted flying eastwards to Hargeisa at about 16:00, and
continuing for about an hour. They flew at tree-top height, fast,
direct and close to the tug, with small flocks of about a dozen birds
passing every few minutes, increasing to flocks of 25-30 birds in
February. This movement continued until 12 April at least. It is
Suggested that these birds had spent the day feeding in the grain-
fields to the west of Hargeisa, the creation of which, on a large
scale prior to 1958, had almost certainly influenced the spread of
this species as it also did Ploceine weavers (Clarke 1986). The
outward flighting movement in the morning - if any - was not located.
The second movement discerned was undertaken by a few pairs, or
small parties not exceeding ten in number, which flighted up the
hillside to the north of Hargeisa to feed and possibly roost on open
sandy patches near the summits of the hills. This movement took
place at dusk with the birds apparently returning next morning, as
observation periods from dusk to almost dark failed to reveal any
birds moving downwards again, the birds always being left on the
ground. On 23 February, the site was visited at 05:55 when half
light and during a thick mist. Two birds were flushed, settling
again a few metres further on. In view of the half light and heavy
Mist 1t seems unlikely - though not impossible - that the birds had
just arrived from the safety of the town below; and, coupled with
the evening observations, strongly suggest that the birds had in
fact roosted there. McLachlan & Liversidge (1978) record the sub-
species phaeonota and/or bradfieldi in South Africa roosting on
newly ploughed fields, having taken to more open country where grain
is grown. At this site the tallest shrubs were scattered acacias,
approximately 3 m high, and most unsuitable for accommodating a
large pigeon, together with patches of aloe scrub interspersed with
open sandy ground.
This species was also noted roosting in August on a south-facing,
split-level, corrugated iron roof; where the upper level overhung the
lower so providing overhead shelter, but leaving the pair exposed to
the prevailing winds.
REFERENCES
ARCHER, G.F. & GODMAN, E.M. 1937. The Birds of British Somaliland
and the Gulf of Aden. Vol. 2. London: Gurney & Jackson.
Short Communications 49
Aeposos ae MESKELL, J.E. 1983. . Birds of Somalia:.their habitat,
status and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. 1.
CLARKE, G. A Weaver roost at Hargeisa, Somalia. Scopus 10: 51-54.
GOODWIN, D. 1967. Pigeons and Doves of the World. London: British
Museum (Nat. Hist.).
McLACHLAN, G.R. & LIVERSIDGE, R. 1978. Roberts Birds of South Africa.
Cape Town: Trustees, J. Voelcker Bird Book Fund.
G. Clarke, Juniper House, 2 Bellingham Road, Kendal LAY 5JW, U.K.
Scopus 10: 47-49, June 1986 Received 13 January 1986
MACKINDER'S EAGLE OWL FEEDING ON BATS
An early morning visit to the Kitum cave on Mt Elgon, Kenya, resulted
in a fascinating observation. At approximately 08:30 on 30 August
1983 Glen and Richard Matthews, Craig Sholley and I approached this
famed elephant cave. When within about 100 m of the mouth of the
cave we sighted a Mackinder's Eagle Owl Bubo capensis mackinderi
perched on the large boulders at the mouth of the cave. While we
stood observing the bird through binoculars, it flew into the cave.
We assumed it was seeking shelter for the daylight hours. We
proceeded towards and then into the cave. Immediately upon
entering the cave, an eagle owl flew out of the cave past us.- As
the bird passed within a metre or so of us it was easily observed
to be carrying a bat, apparently taken in the depths of the cave.
We then sought out the point of rock on which it had been resting
upon our sighting it.
On top of this rock we found five bat wings, of between 15 and
20 cm in length. Upon examining the cave, we found it to contain
a large population of bats of what appeared to be at least two
Species. We were, however, unable to identify these without closer
inspection. These observations suggest diurnal hunting and feeding
by the Mackinder's Eagle Owl in the daytime darkness of the cave,
preying on the roosting bats.
Brian A. Rutledge, Baltimore Zoo, Baltimore, MD 21217, U.S.A.
Scopus 10: 49, June 1986 ; Received 20 February 1986
ROOSTING BEHAVIOUR OF RED-FACED CROMBEC
One facet of bird behaviour that is very little known is the roosting
behaviour of many birds. For example, we have found only one
reference to roosting in honeyguides, that being a honeybird juvenile
roosting between two foster parents.
50 Short Communications
On the evening of 13 November 1985 at our camp on O1 Ari Nyiro
Ranch, Laikipia plateau, Kenya, our attention was focussed on several
interacting Common Bulbuls Pycnonotus barbatus calling loudly. While
watching them we noted a Red-faced Crombec Sylvietta whytii feeding
in the gathering darkness (time 18:38). We watched the crombec move
along several branches, then to a little olive branchlet over our
car's track, at 2.5 m above ground. There it darted about, catching
insects among the petioles of leaves. Suddenly, at 18:40 it ceased
moving and simply perched. We checked it quietly by torchlight at
19:00, 20:00 and 21:00 and indeed found it roosting there.
It was in its roosting position fully by 19:00 and did not shift
from this all night. Facing east, its head appeared to be tucked
under its left wing, and its feathers erected to form almost a round
fluffy ball (especially with the tiny tail virtually covered by the
projecting feathers). Even its feet were covered completely.
Presumably the down feathers were adjusted to hold the inner air
layer tightly, with the contour feathers erected (which would allow
greater penetration of air toward the body, but the contour feathers
may trap the upper air layer to act as outer insulation). The
erected feathers usually allow air to reach the body, cooling the
bird, but presumably the down feathers beneath are then erected also.
In any case this posture and erect plumage were maintained through
the night and from 05:00 to 06:00 on 14 November. The bird moved
and depressed its feathers, raising its head at 06:00; it sat for
nearly two minutes, then at 06:02 it flew down to a bush and began
gleaning insects. Gradually it worked about, feeding voraciously,
reaching the top of an Acacia gerrardi at 06:25; from there it sang
five renditions of its primary song, thus presumably it was a male.
The primary song is a melodic, whistling warbled witch-eee, witch-eee
witch-eee-eeee, sometimes longer, recalling closely the buzzier song
of the North American wood warbler, the Common Yellowthroat
Geothlypis trichas (the alternate, or secondary song, possibly
restricted to females, is a more melodic, complex warble;
occasionally there 15.4 sthord “sone, 1a uted)
To our surprise, what was presumably the same bird came to exactly
the same spot to roost on 14 November at 18:41, and it did not raise
its head out of the ball of fluffy feathers until 06:07 on 15th. It
peered around sleepily for 7 minutes before ‘unfluffing" and darting
off east to a bush. Its roosting posture and direction were
identical to those of the night before. It did not appear there on
the (windy) night of 16 November, but it occupied exactly the same
roosting site on 17, 18 and 19 November, raising its head at about
06:03-06:08, looking about a minute or two later, and flying off,
usually after stretching (one wing and leg), at 06:05-06:15. It also
roosted there 17-19 and 21 December.
One wonders at a bird returning to precisely the same roosting site,
even to the same place on a given perch, so regularly. Especially
favoured sites proven satisfactory by frequent use must afford
certain advantages, otherwise it is difficult to explain repetitive
Short Communications 51
use of a site. However, we need far more data on solitary-roosting
avian species that do not roost in holes, or colonially.
Jennifer F.M. Horne, National Museums of Kenya, P.O. Box 40658,
Nairobi and Lester L. Short, American Museum of Natural History,
New York, N.Y. 10024-5192, U.S.A.
Scopus 10: 49-51, June 1986 Received 31 December 1985
STING-REMOVAL FROM BEES BY WHITE-EYED SLATY FLYCATCHERS
MELAENORNIS CHOCOLATINA
Many bird species feed regularly or occasionally on stinging hymenop-
tera (see McAtee 1932, Birkhead 1974 and Fry 1984 for reviews) but
only a few species, notably bee-eaters (Fry 1969) and shrikes (Gwinner
-1961) are known to use specific behaviour patterns to remove or
destroy the stinging apparatus before swallowing the insect. During
three visits to the Lake Nakuru area, Kenya, in December 1981, April
1983 and April 1985 I repeatedly observed White-eyed Slaty
Flycatchers catching honey bees Apis sp. and removing their stings
in a rather sophisticated manner. Most of these observations were
made in the garden of Lake Nakuru Lodge, where bees were common in
flowering pepper trees. Typically, a foraging flycatcher caught a
bee in the air and quickly flew with it to an appropriate, usually
rather thick, horizontal branch. Holding the beak with the insect
just above the perch, the bird then repeatedly squeezed the tip of
the abdomen with the beak until the stinging apparatus emerged.
Occasionally the stinging apparatus got stuck to the branch and was
pulled out as the bird continued moving the insect. More frequently
the stinging apparatus was squeezed out of the abdomen but remained
attached to it. The bird then laid down the bee, grasped the
stinging apparatus with the bill and flung it away with a sudden
movement of the head. Immediately afterwards, the flycatcher
swallowed the bee and then vigorously wiped its beak, as if to
remove a distasteful or unpleasant substance.
The behaviour shown during sting removal was very swift and its
individual components were hard to separate. Therefore, many
observations were necessary to eventually gain the general picture
described above. Still, I may have overlooked some features and
time-lapse photography may be required to analyze the behaviour in
detail. In 1981 two immature birds with spotted upperparts showed
the same behaviour as the adults, but their movements were
generally a bit slower and the entire pattern appeared more clumsy.
Sting removal may not be uncommon among birds that regularly feed
on stinging hymenoptera, although it has as yet been described only
from a limited number of species. Detailed observations of the
feeding behaviour of insectivorous birds may reveal other techniques
for sting-removal in other species.
D2 Short Communications
REFERENCES
BIRKHEAD, T.R. 1974. Predation by birds on social wasps. British
Birds 67: 221-229.
FRY, C.H. 1969. The recognition and treatment of venomous and non-
venomous insects by small bee-eaters. THORS INNA 2S aDS)
FRY, C.H. 1984. The Bee-eaters. Caldon: Poyser.
GWINNER, E. 1961. Uber die Entstachelungshandlung des Neuntéters
(Lanius collurio). Vogelwarte 21: 36-47.
McATEE, W.L. 1932. Effectiveness in nature of so-called protective
adaptations in the animal kingdom, chiefly as illustrated by the
food habits of Nearctic birds. Smithsonian Miscellaneous
Colveceionsnin) Zoology) 8a- Ui) s1—20 le
E. Gwinner, Max-Planck-Institut fiir Verhaltensphysiologie,
Vogelwarte Radolfzell, Radolfzell and Andechs, D-8138 Andechs, FRG
Seojous NOS -Siles2~ dine Ose Received 20 January 1986
A WEAVER ROOST AT HARGEISA, SOMALIA
Sir Geoffrey Archer (Archer & Godman 1961), when writing of the Red-
billed Quelea Quelea quelea in NW Somalia over the period 1917-1922,
stated that he had collected only seven specimens out of the few
quite small parties seen, and considered it to be a rare bird. He
also thought that as the cultivation of millet increased, so would
the number of weavers occurring. In direct contrast however, Ash &
Miskell (1983) were able by 1981 to describe it as an abundant non-
breeding visitor to NW Somalia.
This note attempts to bridge the gap between these statements by
describing very briefly the agricultural changes which took place
in the 1940s and 1950s, and to record the discovery of a temporary
mixed roost of weavers found at Hargeisa in late July 1958,
together with some information on their habits. Finally, a general
comment follows on the distribution and numbers of each species
compared with the data of Archer & Godman (1961).
To set the occurrence of the weavers into perspective, a note on
the agricultural scene is necessary. R.T. Shepherd kindly supplied
data showing that 6000 ha were under cultivation, mainly to millet
and maize, in ex-British Somaliland in 1947. During 1948-1953 the
area was increased to 21000 ha, after which no figures are available
to 1958 (cultivation also increased in ex-Italian Somaliland over the
same period from 56000 ha to 300000 ha) (data from FAO Production
Year Books). In addition to the above large areas of the Hargeisa
valley - to name but one locality - were also converted to fields
during the years 1954-1958, supplying the habitat for the birds
mentioned in this note.
The roost was located on the hillside to the NW of the town on
Short Communications 53
30 July 1958, when large numbers of weavers were passing eastwards
along Hargeisa valley. It was at the site of an underground water
reservoir, below which a small fan of comparatively level ground
fell away down the hillside, and which was guarded to the west by a
small spur.. Here grew several patches of scrub, mainly Acacia
etbaica, 2-3 m in height, together with a clump of acacia saplings
some 5-6 m high which formed the principal roosting site. Large
flocks of birds had been seen in the area over the previous few
days.
The species concerned, and their numbers, are summarized in Table
1 which also shows that the occupation of the roost was terminated
within a month. However, some 150-200 Chestnut Weaver Ploceus
rubiginosus and 200-250 Red-billed Quelea were still in the neigh-
bourhood after 25 August, having moved to an un-located roost to the
east.
Table 1. Summary of occupation of a weaver roost at Hargeisa in 1958
Species Date
30 tinal:
56, Aue hZrAue 14 Aucy o25eAue 929° Aug.
590 Ploceus galbula
Ruppell's Weaver few ee
591 Ploceus intermedius
Masked Weaver 250-300 100 100 none
593 Ploceus rubiginosus
Ghasmnit dleaver 750-1000 500-600 300-400 few none
595 Ploceus velatus
Vitelline Masked Weaver 22S UU 100 100 none
597 Quelea quelea
Red-billed Quelea 1500-2000 200-250 100 none
Note: The species are keyed to and follow the nomenclature of Ash
& Miskell (1983).
During the day the weavers roamed the grainfields to the west, out
to approximately 30 km, returning from 17:30 onwards in noisy, weaving,
streaming flights of 20-50 birds, continuing to arrive at the roost
until well after 18:00. Once in the roost they kept up a continuous
efatter, Often moving from tree to tree, until it was too dark to see
them. The quelea, on the other hand, moved into the roost in
Parties of 50 or more; the flight being quiet, direct, fast, slightly
undulating and at bush-top height. When an obstacle such as a house
was encountered, the flock rose high, and was then subject to sudden
changes of direction. Once in the roost they quickly and quietly
settled down in direct contrast to the Ploceus spp.
54 Short Communications
Contrary to their protracted arrival, the quelea burst out of the
roost to the west in three or four large flocks, completely
vacating the roost before the sun rose; whereas the weavers, also
leaving in three or four large flocks in a matter of minutes, left
as the sun rose. Only a few of these lingered on, noisily squabb-
ling as they moved slowly down the hillside towards the town. By
06:10 virtually all had gone.
Predators were observed at the roost on three occasions. On
| August a Peregrine Falco peregrinus burst down between the trees
in unsuccessful pursuit of a small flock of Superb Starlings Spreo
superbus which also used the roost. On 3rd a probable Lanner Falco
biarmicus flew over at 05:50, and then made off westwards. Finally
on the evening of 5th an immature Gabar Goshawk Melierax gabar made
several attempts to secure a bird from the arriving flocks, but was
apparently unsuccessful. It appeared to be baffled by the number
O£ prey, availabille tomas.
Species notes
590. Ploceus galbula Riippell's Weaver. This species was commonly
seen at Hargeisa, though the coast about Berbera appears to be its
stronghold. Also at Medishe near Erigavo. This distribution and
frequency generally agrees with that of Archer & Godman (1961), but
they do not mention the northeast.
591. Ploceus intermedius Masked Weaver. Noted in 1958 from 18 May
when 12-15 were seen, the last record being of two on 26 November.
In the Forest Reserve at Borama on 20 September, A.R. Tribe and
myself found 8-10 nests in various stages of construction suspended
above a pool (Clarke 1985). Archer & Godman (1961) considered it
"a very rare bird in British Somaliland", there being only three
records of which he provided the third - a pair with eggs at
Megagwein overlooking the Hargeisa valley.
593. Ploc¢eus rubiginosus Chestnut Weaver. First noted in small
numbers - maximum 20 - in 1956 when they moved eastwards through
Hargeisa between 5-11 May, returning in August and September. Next
recorded forming part of a mixed flock of weavers, sparrows and
waxbills feeding in fields at Arabsiyo on 23 February 1958. On
23 May in the Forest Reserve at Borama, a flock of 150-200 was
feeding on the ground at 07:15 after which the next note concerns
the roosting flocks. Many of the males seen in August 1958 were
in heavy body moult, suggesting that they had just finished breeding.
Archer & Godman (1961) record the collection of one male only, at
Hargeisa on 27 August 1920.
595. Ploceus velatus Vitelline Masked Weaver. Noted only at Hargeisa
where a few were seen on | August 1956 feeding in Acacia etbaica.
Next noted in late July 1958. Archer & Godman (1961) record eight
specimens taken from small breeding colonies in mid-June to the end
of July, all from east of the Mt Wogr-Odweina line.
597. Quelea quelea Red-billed Quelea. First seen at Dabolagq on 29
December 1957; also at Arabsiyo on 23 February 1958, after which the
comparatively large flocks of the roost were seen. Archer & Godman
Short Communications 55
(1961) record the collection of seven specimens from small flocks,
all from Hargeisa westwards, and considered the species to be rare.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I should like to thank Mr R.T. Shepherd for very kindly supplying
the agricultural data, and Mr A.R. Tribe, Government Forestry Officer
for allowing me access to the Borama Forestry Reserve and for his
companionship in the field.
REFERENCES
ARCHER, G.F. & GODMAN, E.M. 1961. The Birds of British Somaliland
and the Gulf of Aden. Vol. 4. Edinburgh and London: Oliver & Boyd.
Bones & MEOKELL, J.E. 1983. ° Birds of Somalia, their habitat,
status and distribution. Scopus Special Supplement No. 1.
CLARKE, G. 1985. Bird observations from NW Somalia. Scopus 9: 24-42.
GAZETTEER
Arabsiyo 9:41N 43:46E Hargeisa 9:33N 44:04E
Berbera 10:26N 45:02E Medishe 10:45N 47:35E
Borama 9:56N 43: 11E Megagwein 9:30N 44:10E approx.
Dabolaq BSN 2432 52E Odweina 9:24N 45:04E
Erigavo 10:37N 47:22E Wogr, Mt 10:01N 45:26E
G. Clarke, Juniper House, 2 Bellingham Road, Kendal LA9 5JW, U.K.
seopus, 102 51-54, June 1986 Received 13 January 1986
BIRDS VISITING A RECENTLY FILLED DAM IN TANZANIA
In 1944 a small catchment area on the Ardai Plains, 32 km SW of
Arusha, Northern Tanzania, was dammed with an earth dam. The reser-
voir behind the dam did not flood until March 1946, after heavy rain
on the night 18/19 March, when, by the next morning, the dam was more
than half full. The main rains which followed were very poor, only
another 100 mm being recorded, and while the dam filled almost to the
spillway, the water level gradually fell through May, and receded
rapidly in June. It was estimated that, when the dam was at its
fullest, the water area was approximately | ha. The nearest perma-
nent water to the Ardai dam was the large Meserani dam, 14 km to the
SE. The Eluanata dam, 4.5 km to the NW was almost dry at the time.
At 10:00 on the next morning, 19 March, there were already three
species of waterfowl and two species of wader at the dam. Four other
visits were made to the dam in March, April, May and June and the
species present on all occasions are shown in Table |. Unfortunately
no visits were possible after June, but the dam would have been dry
by the end of July, if not earlier.
56 Short Communications
The first, and possibly most striking feature, is the speed with
which the new water was found by those five species. Three of them
were Palaearctic migrants which might already have been moving
northwards. The Red-billed Teal (scientific names are given in
Table 1) is a great wanderer and during the rains appears on many
casual waters, but the Egyptian Goose is more sedentary and its
early presence more unexpected.
Three days later there were two Palaearctic migrants, Garganey in
slightly larger numbers, and a single Marsh Sandpiper. The only
other wildfowl were a small flock of Spur-winged Geese, a species
prone to local movements. The Crowned Cranes were probably the
local resident birds, but the appearance of a Kittlitz's Sandplover,
a rather sedentary species, was unexpected.
By 11 April the number of species had increased to eight, one of
which was a rather unexpected Little Grebe, largely resident on
permanent waters although individuals do wander occasionally to
casual water in the rains (Britton 1980). This was the last
occasion on which Palaearctic migrants were recorded, but they may
well have continued to make some use of the dam after that date.
It would have been of interest to know whether the Marsh Sandpiper
had remained at the dam from 22 March. The only Black-winged Stilt
seen at the dam was recorded on the April visit, and the bird could
have been a Palaearctic migrant. There were only three records of
visits by egrets or herons, the first on 11] April by a Little Egret.
By 23 May the Little Grebes had increased to three and a Black-
headed Heron was present. Waterfowl were in larger numbers, with
a return of Red-billed Teal and the appearance of four Hottentot
Teal and two Southern Pochard, some of which possibly became
temporarily resident for there were still five Red-billed Teal,
two Hottentot Teal and three Southern Pochard present on 20 June.
Another unexpected species, a single Black Crake, was found at the
dam in May. This species is mainly sedentary, although individuals
do wander, but with the absence of aquatic vegetation and good cover
round the dam, it is difficult to see what could have been attractive
to this bird. It was not there at the last visit in June.
The only Passerine recorded at the dam was the Quail Finch. On
23 May this frequenter of muddy shores of lakes and dams was
numerous round the edges of the dam. The species was a local
breeding resident.
After 23 May the water level receded rapidly and by 20 June the dam
was barely a quarter full. However, it was still very attractive to
waterfowl, with a flock of 100 Knob-billed Ducks present, and four
other species of duck (see Table 1). New visitors were a single
Great White Egret, 10 Blacksmith Plovers, and a single Three-banded
Plover, the last mainly a sedentary bird, but liable to local
seasonal movements. ;
On the June visit flocks of all three species of resident sandgrouse
were watering at the dam at 08:45, the Yellow-throated Sandgrouse
Short Communications
Di
Table 1. The number of each species present at the dam at each visit
Se Mar 220 Mar sil Apr 23) May 7720) Jun
Little Grebe
Tachybaptes ruficollis
Black-headed Heron
Ardea melanocephala
Great White Egret
Egretta alba
Little Egret
E. garzetta
Egyptian Goose
Alopochen aegyptiaca
Red-billed Teal
Anas erythrorhynchos
Hottentot Teal
A. hottentota
Garganey
A. querquedula
Southern Pochard
Netta erythrophthalma
Spur-winged Goose
Plectropterus gambensis
Knob-billed Duck
Sarkidiornis melanotis
Crowned Crane
Balearica pavonina
Black Crake
Limnocorax flavirostris
Kittlitz's Sandplover
Charadrius pecuarius
Three-banded Plover
Cn tricollaris
Blacksmith Plover
Vanellus armatus
Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glarola -
Marsh Sandpiper
T. stagnatalis
Reds hank
T. totanus
Black-winged Stilt
Himantopus himantopus
Black-faced Sandgrouse
Pterocles decoratus
100
Continued overleaf
58 Short Communications
Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse x
Pee xuUseEus
Yellow-throated Sandgrouse
P. gutturalis
Quail Finch re
Ortygospiza atricollis
* All three species of sandgrouse coming to water at 08:45
** Many round the shore
greatly outnumbering the Black-faced and the Chestnut-bellied. For
sandgrouse from the Ardai the Meserani Dam was the main watering
place, where they were regularly shot. The new dam would have been
of greater convenience and undisturbed as hunters had not been
attracted to 1t.
DISCUSSION
In the first four days after the dam held water it had been visited
by nine species, four of which were Palaearctic migrants, and five
residents. The presence of two resident species at the dam only a
few hours after it had partially filled suggests a rapid response to
the arrival of the first heavy rains, and a search for new feeding
sites. Over the three months of observation 20 resident species
visited the dam, but of those only three species of duck may have
become resident for the last few weeks, when the water level was
falling. Of the others, only Spurwing Goose and Crowned Crane were
recorded on more than one occasion. But the fact that a new sheet
of water was visited by such diverse species as Little Grebe, Black
Crake and Kittlitz's Sandplover suggests that casual movements by
some species of generally more sedentary habits are more frequent
than might be expected.
One can only conjecture what the attraction of this small dam was
to the species visiting it. There would have been no truly aquatic
flora or fauna when the dam first held water. It could have offered
a resting place for long-distance migrants, and the waders might have
been able to find invertebrates with the moistening of otherwise very
hard ground at the edge of the water. Others, such as the three
solitary members of the heron family, which were each recorded only
once, having been attracted by a sheet of water expecting to find
food, could have been disappointed and moved on. For the Black Crake
the habitat would have been even less inviting, lacking dense cover
round the water's edge.
N.R. Fuggles-Couchman, Post House, High Street, Broughton, Stock-
bridge, Hants SO20 8AA, England
Scopus 10: 54-57, June 1986 Received 30 April 1986
Contents of Malimbus 7(2) October 1985 59
MALIMBUS 7(2) OCTOBER 1985
[The contents of the latest issue of our sister journal]
A new Subspecies of the Rufous Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus
rufescens from Senegal. P.R. Colston and G.J. Morel 61
Birds in Falgore Game Reserve, Nigeria. R. Wilkinson and
R. Beecroft 63
Bird Records from the Republic of Niger. R.A. Cheke,
See watch and J.)-.C. Fishpool 73
Sedentarisation de Monticola solitarius au Cap de Naze,
Sénégal. C. Rouchouse 91
Preuss's Cliff Swallow Hirundo preussi breeding in Sierra
Leone. Alan Tye 95
Progressive improvement in foraging efficiency of juvenile
European Bee-eaters Merops apiaster in the Eastern Cape
Province, South Africa. W.C. Marais and B. Every 97
Birds of Outamba Area, Northwest Sierra Leone. Ruth E. Heppel 101
The species of parasitic finches in West Africa. R.B. Payne 103
Devouverte d'un nouvel Aigle forestier au Sénégal 1'Aigle
d'Ayres Hieraaetus dubius. A.R. Dupuy 114
Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis inland in Ivory Coast
ane Nteeria. S.). Eccles 114
Les Oiseaux des Milieux Rocheux au Sénégal. G.J. Morel bis
Parasites and diseases of Abdim's Stork Ciconia abdimii
A.U. Ezealor 120
Some changes in the bird fauna of Lagos, Nigeria. P.D.
Alexander-—Marrack, M.J. Aaronson, R. Farmer, W.H. Houston
and T.R. Mills 2
Some Egyptian Plover nests in Senegal. M.W. Richards and
J. Boswall 128
Plain Nightjar at sea off Ivory Coast, C.H. Fry 29
Song and courtship of the Wattled Starling Creatophora
cinerea. W.A. Sontag jr. ' 129
Large-scale movements of Common Pratincole Glareola
pratincola at Juba. F.R. Lambert 136
A new Northern Carmine Bee-eater colony. J. Boswall
and M.W. Richards 136
Notes complémentaires sur 1'Avifaune des Parcs Nationaux
de 1'Arli (Burkina) et de la Pendjari (Benin). Yves
Thonnerieux 137
Reichenbach's Sunbird Nectarinia reichenbachii new to
ivery. Coast. S.D). Eccles 140
Oriole babbler Hypergerus atriceps near coast of Ivory
Cease. SD: ‘Eccles 140
Ringing in Nigeria 1984. R.E. Sharland 140
Observations of Allen's Gallinule Porphyrio alleni at
Mombasa, Kenya. P.B. Taylor 14]
Reviews 150
Notices 154
60 Letter, Review
LETTER
Sir, The mention of the Brown-capped Weaver Ploceus insignis in
Scopus 9: 125 is surely erroneous; Ploceus insignis is a highland
forest species and no doubt P. bicolor was intended in this Sokoke
Forest observation.
Another erroneous statement occurs in the same issue (Scopus 9:
138) where a record of the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Bycanistes brevis
at 0:36N 36:22E is claimed to be the most northerly in Kenya.
Britton (1980) records the species from the Ndoto Mts at 1:45N
37:07E, and Lewis & Pomeroy (in press A bird atlas of Kenya,
Rotterdam: Balkema) will include a record of Y. Malcolm Coe's
from near Maralal at 1:06N 36:42E.
Adrian D. Lewis, Box 25296, Nairobi
Scopus 10: 59, June 1985 Received 10 April 1986
REVIEW
Conservation of tropical forest birds edited by A.W. Diamond and T.E.
Lovejoy, 1985. ICBP Technical Publication No. 4, ISBNEO94esecnoame
Pp. xvi + 318, ¢. A5, softback, price, £18.50 (post sinee)) saqammeme
International Council for Bird Preservation, 219c Huntingdon Road,
Cambridge CB3 ODL, U.K.
This is a very well produced book containing 15 papers which were pre-
sented at.a Workshop and Symposium on Tropical Forest Bird Conserya-
tion organized by the ICBP at Cambridge in August 1982. After the in-
troductory matter there are three papers under the heading 'Global
Perspectives', then six on New World forest birds and six covering
birds of Old World forests - unfortunately only three of them Afro-
tropical (Thiollay: The West African forest avifauna; a review; Stuart
Stuart: Rare forest birds and their conservation in eastern Africa;
and Dowsett: The conservation of tropical forest birds in central and
southern Africa). It should be noted that this ICBP meeting clashed
with the 6th Pan-African Ornithological Congress held in Malawi, which
was a great pity.
The final section of the book is on the Workshop Proceedings and it
contains a paper by Prigogine on the conservation of the avifauna of
the forests of the Albertine rift.
The main value of the book is that it gives an up-to-date review of
the subject, with the unfortunate omission of Madagascar but this will
be covered in the forthcoming Red Data Book on Madagascar birds.
G.C. Backhurst
Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the form
used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case of books, the
town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of works, which are cited
frequently, should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s) of the author(s) and date(s)
of publication should be given in the text in the normal way.
All contributions, which will be acknowledged, should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi.
WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al, 1971.
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds, Nairobi:
EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980,
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa. Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al, 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa. 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands, London: Academic Press,
= Moreau 1966.
1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems, London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
This forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar year. Records of
Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in early in the new year to
ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
through to any OS-C member (numbers inside front cover) in the hope that the bird(s)
may be seen by others.
Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
June 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
IC11 AMREF
CONTENTS
P.A. CLANCEY. Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa... 33
Short Communications
D.J. PEARSON. Sightings of Long-toed Stints Calidris sub-
minuta at Naivasha .. . . « . « « » « 0) eee
HEINRICH SCHIEMANN. Red-necked Phalaropes Phalaropus lob-
atus off the coast of Somalia and Kenya ...... 42
SUSAN M. TYZACK and O. VOLCERE. The Roseate Tern Sterna
dougallii arideensis on Aride Island Seychelles:
notes on the 1984 season . . . °. « @ oo sneer ECIS
G. CLARKE. Notes on the Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea
in NW Somalia . . 2.06 2s « © s @ (scp mmecnncnmennnC mney
BRIAN A. RUTLEDGE. Mackinder's Eagle Owl feeding on bats . 49
JENNIFER F.M. HORNE and LESTER L. SHORT. Roosting behav-
our of Red=faced Crombec 5. = 1) scmcmcnmcune nn ennCnn IEEE
E. GWINNER. Sting-removal from bees by White-eyed
Slaty Flycatchers Melaenornis chocolatina ..... 51
G. CLARKE. A weaver roost at Haxgeisa, Somalitaniu:-memn ee
N.R. FUGGLES-COUCHMAN. Birds visiting a recently filled
dam in Tanzania . . i's 6 <°s © © s 6 Suey!
New OSC Publications . « . . « 2 «© « © «© «© 6 ow 0 6) en CnmsinntCHnNCnmCCmmEECHO
Contents of Malimbus 7(2)) October 1985). 2 se) cree ncn ment
Letter (from Dr Adrian D. Lewis)! 2 5 5 os) cnc ne mtn nC EO)
RevieW . < 6 6 © © 6 @ @ © 8 & wee eee 4 we) ve el Senn arene nn
Printed in Kenya by AMREF, Box 30125, Nairobi
2) fon Ay en ee LON 0250-4162
3343 “SANTHSON
icds
A quarterly publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee
East African Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 10(3/4) December 1986
SCOPUS |
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues may be combined to alloy
for long papers) by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the East African Natural Histor
Society. Subscriptions are payable to the OS-C Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turne /
[tel, 48772] , Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates: c
East African residents: KShs 100.00 (KShs 107.50 up-country).
Overseas, surface mail: Stg£6.00, US$12.00 or equivalent in convertible currency. .
Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
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Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted. c
Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Thos ;
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No. 285260: 5
Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd., Market Branch, Box 30018, Nairobi. é
Other members of the Ornithological Sub-Committee u
Dr D.J. Pearson (Chairman), Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, Bo. E
30197, Nairobi; bouse tel, 47041 a
G.C. Backhurst (Editor of Scopus and Ringing Organizer, Box 24702, Nairobi; house tei c
891419, office tel, 500508, 501301 U
N.E. Baker, Dar es Salaam; Dr Margaret Carswell, Kampala; M.A.C. Coverdale, Nakuru
J.H. Fanshawe, U.K.; Mrs Cecilia Gichuki, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Dar es Salaam; Dr W
Karanja, Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Nairobi; B.S. Meadows, U.K.; Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Kampala
J.F. Reynolds, U.K.; D.K. Richards, Nairobi; T. Stevenson, Baringo and Nairobi.
NOTES FOR CONTRIBUTORS
Scopus welcomes original contributions in English on all aspects of the ornithology o .
eastern Africa. Contributions will be assessed by the members of the OS-C and/or b' 1,
independent referees. The material published in Scopus is divided into ‘papers’ and ‘shor a
communications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length, Authors of ‘paper; a
are entitled to five copies of their contribution gratis. Extra copies, which will be supplie £
at cost, must be ordered when the MS is submitted. y
Contributions should be typed in 1% or double spacing on one side of the paper only $
with wide margins all round, and should be submitted in duplicate. Exceptionally cles ,
hand-written MSS will be considered but these too should be sent in duplicate. Both Englis 7
and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is first mentioned, thereafti s
only one should be used; they should be those of Birds of East Africa unless the speciN
does not occur in that work. ;
Tables, which should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, NOT grouped « a
separate een at the end. Metric units should be used.
Illustrations should be on good quality white paper, bristol board or tracing material,
line, and should not be larger than 19 x 23 cm. Lettering (in black) will be the reopened s
of the author and should be done neatly in Letraset (or similar), no larger than 14 pot!
(3.9 mm). Each illustration should be numbered (Fig. 1, etc.) and be provided with a leger)
nr ra et ae te he | ton be Concdered
Scopus 10 (3/4), December 1986 61
THE LESS COMMON PALAEARCTIC MIGRANT BIRDS OF UGANDA
Dewey Vaan son wands DLA. Tu rime r
(
‘Although Britton (1980) mentions the status of species known to have
occurred in Uganda up to 1978, there has been no full review of
Palaearctic migrant visitors to that country since Jackson (1938).
Modern occurrences of interest have been documented in publications
‘such as Mann (1971, 1973, 1976), Pearson (1972ab), Rolfe & Pearson
(1973) and Carswell (1986) and Uganda has been covered since 1977 by
‘the East African Bird Report. However, there are still many records
of the less common migrants, notably for the period 1963-1973 (when
the country had a number of active resident ornithologists), which
have never been properly published. This review, a complement to the
work of Backhurst, Britton & Mann (1973) on Kenya and Tanzania, is
intended to rectify the situation.
We deal fully here with any Palaearctic species whose status is
uncertain, or uncommon to vagrant, in Uganda as a whole or ina
substantial part of it. These are all species which we feel that an
active observer would be unlikely to encounter in the areas concerned
more than a few times a year. We accept 78 species in this ‘less
‘common’ category. Forty-five more migrants are known to occur in
Uganda more commonly, and for completeness these are listed in the
Appendix together with brief details of their occurrence and distri-
bution.
For many sight records, it has not proved possible after the elapse
of fifteen years or more to obtain full substantiating details. In
assessing such records we have often therefore had to rely heavily on
our own knowledge or on independent reports concerning the reliability
of the observer. The great majority of post-1960 records we have
traced do in fact come from observers well known to one or other of
us. Unless there is mention of a specimen or of capture for ringing
it can be assumed that records given are sight records. We have been
cautious, however, in admitting species to the Uganda list on the
basis of unsubstantiated sight records alone. Mention is included of
a number of interesting wader observations from Entebbe reported
anonymously in the Annual Report of the Game and Fisheries Department
for 1950, and apparently due to W.J. Eggeling. Mention of 'Jackson'
refers to his three-volumed work of 1938.
SYSTEMATIC LIST
Ixobrychus minutus minutus Little Bittern
It is surprising that a Palaearetic bird known to occur widely in
southern Africa (Clancey 1980) and to be common on passage along the
Nile in Sudan (Chapin 1932) has been practically unrecorded in Uganda.
A number were found in swamps on the Ibanda road, near Mbarara, during
Jan-Feb 1970 (G.N. Harrington et al.). In addition Mann (1976)
considered that 30+ in a small area in Teso district on 6 Nov 1966
Scopus 10: 61-82, December 1986
|
62 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
were probably of this race.
Ciconia nigra Black Stork
There have been few records of this bird from Uganda, and it appears
to be less regular than in Kenya. One ringed as a nestling at Krone,
W Prussia (now Poland) 4 June 1934 was recovered at Pader Gem (E
Acholi) on 28 Dec 1935 (Eggeling 1951). One was seen at Katwe on 15
Mar 1937 (anon 1937), one in Kidepo NP in Feb 1966 (A.P. Ziegler),
one at Kajansi, near Kampala, from 24 Oct to 2 Nov 1969 (G. Low) and
one at Namulonge, near Kampala, on 13 Dec 1971 (R.G. Passmore).
Platalea leucorodia Eurasian Spoonbill
Although common and regular in the Sudan to about 12 N (G. Nikolaus
pers. comm.), this species appears to be no more than a vagrant
visitor to Uganda, for which we have the following records: one on
the Nile at Pakwach 15 Mar 1964 (Keith 1968); one near Mbarara 4 and
7 Jan 1970 (G.R. Harrington); a single at Kajansi 4 Jul, 31 Oct and
13 Nov-4 Dec 1982, and 18 Jan and 13 and 18 Mar 1983 (J.S. Ash, M.J.
Carswell, A.B. Sheldon).
Anas acuta Pintail
Generally uncommon except in southwestern areas, where it regularly
visits Rwenzori NP, and in Karamoja. Jackson mentions records from
L. Ruakatenge (Ankole/Kigezi border) and L. Wamala (Mubende). Annual
Reports of the Game and Fisheries Department for the period 1937-60
mention birds in Ankole and Kigezi, and also Karamoja, where hundreds
occurred at times at Longorokipi during the 1950s. Parties were
recorded annually in the Rwenzori NP from 1964-72 (max. count c250
on 10 Jan 1972; extremes Nov and early Apr) (Eltringham 1973, J.M.
Lock et al.). Large flocks also occurred in Kabalega Falls NP in
late Nov 1968 (A.P. Ziegler), and a few were wintering on dams near
Moroto early in 1967 (per J.M. Lock). More recently, 70+ were
present at Mabamba swamp, Entebbe, on 31 Jan 1982 (M.J. Carswell)
and there are Jan-Feb records for 1982-83 of singles at Kajansi and
Kampala, and up to six at Kibimba Rice Scheme (M.J. Carswell, J.S.
Ash).
Anas clypeata Shoveler
An uncommon and irregular visitor, occurring in small numbers, mainly
in the southwest and the northeast. The only locality given by
Jackson is L. Wamala. Annual Reports of the Game and Fisheries
Department for the period 1937-60 mention occasional birds in Ankole,
Kigezi and Karamoja. Occurred most years from 1964-72 in the
Rwenzori NP (max. count 20) between late Oct and Feb (Eltringham
1973, J.M. Lock, DAT, DJP). Otherwise, the only records we have are
of one near Moroto early Mar 1967 (per J.M. Lock), a few Kabalega
Falls NP on 9 Feb 1970 (DAT) and nine at Kibimba Rice Scheme on 10
Oct 1982 (M.J. Carswell).
Anas crecca Teal
A rare and irregular visitor. Jackson refers to records from the
Toro Crater Lakes. Up to four were present on the hippo wallows,
Rwenzori NP, from 16 Dec 1969 to 27 Feb 1970, with one on 14 Nov 1970,
up to eight from 10 Dec 1970 to Feb 1971, and 1 on 16 Oct 1971
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 63
(Eltringham 1973, J.M. Lock, M.P-L. Fogden, DAT). In Kabalega Falls
NP A.P. Ziegler recorded one at Buligi on 2 Jan 1970 and eight at
Pamdero during Feb 1970.
Anas penelope Wigeon
A rare visitor known from two records in Rwenzori NP: a full plumaged
male on 21 Feb 1967 (J.W. Mascher) and another on 5 Dec 1970 (M.P.L.
Fogden). There are however older references to occurrences in
Karamoja (anon. 1955).
Aythya ferina Pochard
A rare visitor, but perhaps more common formerly. There are speci-
mens bearing Pitman's label in the Uganda Museum, taken at L.
Nakivali (Ankole) on 13 Nov 1925 (a male and a female) and at L.
Mugisha (= Kayumba) (Kigezi) on 27 Dec 1938 (two females) (M.J.
Carswell in litt.). There are two recent records, both from the
hippo wallows, Rwenzori NP: a female during Dec 1969 and up to four
birds from 4 Dec 1970 to 25 Jan 1971 (Eltringham 1973, M.P.L. Fogden).
Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck
A rare to uncommon visitor. Jackson refers to birds at L. N'kungula
(W Ankole) and a few at L. Kikorongo (Toro) in Feb, while Chapin
(1932) mentions records about 1925 from Butiaba, L. Albert, and L.
Chahafi (Kigezi/Rwanda border); Mann (1976) mentions a male
collected at L. Bisina (Teso) on 29 Dec 1912. The only recent
records are from Rwenzori NP: one on 1 Jan 1966, two in Dec 1969,
one on 10 Feb 1970, up to five in Jan 1971! and four on 10 Jan 1972
Piste eroce. M-PE. Fogden, DJP, DAT).
Aythya nyroca White-eyed Pochard
Rare or vagrant. The only record is from Butiaba, L. Albert, where
G.F. Archer shot one on 13 Nov 1901 (Jackson 1938).
Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk
One was collected near the Achwa River, Parango, Lango, on 18 Mar
1929; specimen now in the British Museum (Pearson 1986).
[Accipiter nisus Eurasian Sparrowhawk
Listed for Kidepo Valley NP by Elliot (1972) but not discussed. This
is perhaps an error.
[Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle
Included for Uganda by Britton (1980) but we have been unable to
obtain satisfactory substantiation from the observer.
Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle
Far scarcer than in Kenya, and the few records are all from the north
and northeast. A.P. Ziegler (in litt.) observed Steppe Eagles in the
Kabalega Falls NP, near Chobe, between late Dec and mid Mar 1969/70.
DAT observed one in Kidepo Valley NP on 24-25 Mar 1970, and a few
there on 13-14 Jan 1971 and 24-25 Mar 1972, while Mann (1971) records
one near Mt Kadam (South Karamoja) in March 1967.
Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle
First recorded only in 1969 but probably regular in small numbers, at
least on passage. M.P.L. Fogden (in litt.) noted small groups of
64 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
4-12 on northward migration in Rwenzori NP during late Mar-early Apr
in 1969, 1970 and 1971. Singles were recorded at Namulonge, near
Kampala, on 19 Jan and 8 Oct 1971 (R.G. Passmore); a number were
reported in the northern parks in early Feb 1976 (J.M. Thiollay);
and recently, during 1983, J.S. Ash observed birds moving south with
buzzards Buteo buteo at Entebbe on 9 Oct, and at Lwampanga SW of
L. Kyoga on 11 Oct with two more on 13 Oct.
Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard
This species apparently reaches Uganda in very small numbers. We
have just four records: one picked up exhausted at Gulu on 2 Oct
1967 (J. Lindley); one Rwenzori NP 30 Dec 1968 (M.P.L. Fogden); two
to three Kidepo Valley NP 24-25 Mar 1970 (DAT); and one Mt Kadam
(South Karamoja) on 29 Dec 1971 (Rolfe & Pearson 1973).
Circaaetus gallicus gallicus Short-toed Eagle
White (1965) mentions its occurrence at Mt Elgon, but we are unable
to trace this record. Our only records of Palaearctic Short-toed
Eagles are of birds seen at very close range in Kidepo Valley NP,
one on 11 Jan 1971 (DAT) and the other on 24 Dec 1971 (Rolfe &
Pearson 1973).
Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle
Apparently regular, but uncommon; a few winter but most records are
of southward passage migrants. Jackson mentions only a single bird,
at Mityana in Feb 1902. C.F. Mann (in litt.) recorded one at Tororo
in Nov 1964, and J.G. Williams (pers. comm.) saw a few there in mid-
Oct 1968. Rolfe & Pearson (1973) summarized a number of observations
of up to three birds on the forested lower slopes of Elgon between
16 Oct 1971 and 3 Apr 1972. There are single records from Kabalega
Falls NP late Dec 1969, 28 Nov 1971 and 21 Mar 1972 (A.P. Ziegler,
DAT, G.S. Keith); Rwenzori NP early Apr 1970 (M.P.L. Fogden);
Namulonge, near Kampala 8 Oct 1971 (R.G. Passmore); Gaba, near
Kampala 17 Jan 1982 (M.J. Carswell); Nabiswera, W of L. Kyoga 11 Oct
1983 (J.S. Ash); Lwampanga, SW of Kyoga 13 Oct 1983 (J.S. Ash); and
Entebbe 17 Oct 1983 (M.J. Carswell). A few were moving south with
buzzards B. buteo on the northern slopes of Elgon on 9 Oct 1983
Cisse Ash)
Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard
Probably a regular visitor, but generally uncommon and seldom
recorded. Jackson mentions specimens taken in October and February
and a bird which remained at Entebbe for two months early in 1901.
We have the following recent records: one Soroti 21 Nov 1966 (Mann
1973); three flying NW over Budongo forest Apr 1967 (Mann 1973); one
Entebbe 13 Dec 1969 (R. Frankum); one Kampala 22 Aug 1970 (R. Frankum)
one Mukono 10 Mar 1971 (P. Hamel); and one Nabugabo, Masaka, 25 Oct
1983 iGesag Ash).
Falco amurensis Eastern Red-footed Falcon
Known from only three records: a female Kampala Apr 1965 (Mann 1973);
a group of three Rwenzori NP Apr 1970 (M.P.L. Fogden); and two
Kibimba 7-8 Dec 1985 (M.J. Carswell).
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 65
Falco concolor Sooty Falcon
Widespread in small parties in Kabalega Falls NP and the Masindi area
during Apr 1967 (Mann 1973). Reported also from Madi Apr 1969
(J. Mackenzie-Grieve).
[Falco eleonorae Eleonora's Falcon
Recorded from Kidepo Valley NP by Britton (1980), but in the absence
of sufficient substantiating detail we prefer not to include the
Species on the Uganda list.
[Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon
Recorded from Moroto by Mann (1971) but until details are available
we prefer not to include the species for Uganda.
Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel
Jackson does not record this species for Uganda, and it certainly
occurs much less commonly and in smaller numbers than in Kenya,
mainly in the drier north and east. It is everywhere greatly out-
numbered by migrant Common Kestrels Falco tinnunculus. We have
records from the north and east of up to 10 together, mid Oct to
early Apr, localities including Kabalega Falls NP, Gulu, Kidepo
Valley NP, South Karamoja, Teso District, Tororo and Kibimba
(Busoga). Elsewhere, three were seen near Mbarara in Feb 1967
(DJP), and a few in Rwenzori NP Oct 1969 (M.P.L. Fogden) and near
Kampala during early-mid Mar 1971 (R.G. Passmore).
Coturnix coturnix coturnix Common Quail
Stoneham (1926) stated that this was a common migrant at Kitgum in
the winter months. We have examined a British Museum specimen
collected at Entebbe on 2 Feb 1902, and confirm that this is of the
nominate race.
Crex crex Corncrake
Jackson knew this species as a passage bird at Entebbe in Nov and
Feb-Mar. There are also specimens in the British Museum from
Ankole in Nov 1903 and Mubende in May 1908. First arrival in the
Entebbe area in 1950 was reported as 18 Nov (anon 1950). We know
of no recent Ugandan records.
Porzana parva Little Crake
G.F. Archer "collected four, lost one and saw two others" in a small
group at Kitiaba, L. Albert, in early Dec 1901 (Jackson). There
also exists in the British Museum an old undated specimen collected
by R.B. Sharpe, and simply labelled ‘Uganda’. There have been no
recent records.
Porzana porzana Spotted Crake
There are but three Uganda records, all of single birds: from Kampala
(the Kabaka's lake) 8 Dec 1899 (specimen in Nairobi Museum); from
Karamoja (site unknown) 14 May 1931 (also in Nairobi Museum); and a
Sight record from Awoja (Teso) late Nov 1967 (Mann 1976).
Burhinus oe€dicnemus Stone Curlew
This species was not recorded for Uganda by Jackson, but there are
several recent records from the north: one West Nile Feb 1969
66 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
(J. Mackenzie-Grieve); three or four near Moroto 21 Mar 1969 (DAT);
and a flock of about 30 Kidepo Valley NP, 6-9 Jan 1970 (A.P. Zeigler).
Zeigler (in litt.) also comments that R. Wheater (then Warden)
reported that it occurred in small numbers in most years in the
Kabalega Falls NP in the mid-1960s.
Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher
One reported from Entebbe on 21 Mar 1915 (Meinertzhagen 1922)
appears to be the sole acceptable record. The species is also listed
for ~Rwenzond NEAbya Mas Locks Gimme ea) mancieMeypralee en (Gian tisicie’.))
but no details of this record can be ‘traced.
[Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover
One was claimed at Entebbe on 16 Mar 1950 (anon 1950), but in the
absence of full details this cannot be included on the Uganda list.
Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover
Now an uncommon to rare visitor. Jackson mentions records from L.
Albert in Nov and Dec, Entebbe in Dec and the Agua (= Agogo) River
(Acholi) in Feb. Recorded in Entebbe in 1950 up to Mar and from mid
Nov with six caught and ringed and a maximum of 35 present in Dec
(anon 1950). More recently, only single birds have been seen, all
in the Kabalega Falls NP, on 18 Nov 1965, 21 Sep 1970, 15 Jan 1972
and 2)lMar i972 iGieMes lock eDAm)
Charadrius leschenaultii Great Sandplover
There is a single record of a bird at Entebbe airport on 25 Sep 1966
(Pearson 1972a).
Charadrius mongolus Mongolian Sandplover
There is a single record of two birds in Rwenzori NP on 16 Jan 1969
(M.P.L. Fogden).
Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover
Jackson mentions one collected at Butiaba in Nov. There are recent
sightings from Entebbe: one on 16-17 Apr 1966 (DJP), one 12 Mar 1983
and 24 July 1983 (M.J. Carswell, J.S. Ash) and two jon) Z20;Auegigoe
(Is So Asin)).
Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel
Small numbers occur regularly at L. Victoria, and perhaps L. Albert,
with most records during southward migration. Jackson states that
it regularly visits the Entebbe area in Sep and Feb. In 1950 it was
recorded here each month, with up to 6-8 in Aug (anon 1950), while
during 1966-68 DJP saw single birds here in all months Sep-Mar, and
during 1983-84 J.-S: Ash found up to ‘three during Jan, Mar. peem ea
and Oct. R. Wheater (in litt.) listed Whimbrel as a rare visitor to
Kabalega Falls NP in Sep, Oct and Jan, and DAT saw one in Butiaba,
L. Albert, on 8 Sep 1964. Finally, one was seen at Kibimba Rice
Scheme (Busoga) on 18 Oct 1983, and a party of six at Katwe,
Rwenzori NP on 11 Nov 1983 (D.E. Pomeroy).
Numenius arquata Curlew
Jackson mentions a Nov sighting at Butiaba by G.F. Archer. One was
reported at Entebbe on 2 Aug 1935 (anon 1935), and one present there
17 July to 6 Aug 1950 was caught and ringed, as was one of two
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 67
present 27-28 Aug the same year (anon 1950). More recently, A.P.
Zeigler (in litt.) and R. Wheater (in litt.) recorded it in the
mid 1960s as a rare visitor to Kabalega Falls NP in Oct and Apr, and
DAT saw one there on 7 Aug 19/70.
Tringa totanus Redshank
The only satisfactory records are from Rwenzori NP. It was seen
there regularly in small numbers (max. 3), especially in Katwe Bay,
during 1964-71, with extreme dates 29 Aug-25 Mar (J.M. Lock, M.P.L.
Fogden, DJP).
Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank
Now an uncommon but regular visitor to some localities in the south.
The first records were from Rwenzori NP, where it occurred annually
during Nov-Apr from 1964-72 (max. 12)(J.M. Lock, M.P.L. Fogden, DJP).
Since 1966 there have been eight records of up to four birds near
Kampala dated 16 Jan to 12 Mar (DJP, M.J. Carswell, Mann 1971), and
single birds in northern Mengo district on 3 Feb and in Kabalega
Falls NP on 10 Jan (DAT). Up to eight were recorded at Kibimba Rice
Scheme between 5 Dec 1982 and 20 Feb 1983 (M.J. Carswell).
Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper
We have several records, mostly of single autumn birds: one Damba Is,
L. Victoria, 26 Jan 1937 (anon 1937); 1-2 Entebbe 14 Aug to 4 Oct
1950 (1 ringed) and 1-2 28 Oct to 4 Dec of the same year (anon 1950);
1 Kabalega Falls NP 27 Nov 1966 (J.H. Phillips); and another 14 Sep
1971 (DAT); one Entebbe 30 Sep to 7 Oct 1967 (DJP, J.M. Lock); one
Rwenzori NP 9-12 Oct 1970 (M.P.L. Fogden); and one Kibimba Rice
Scheme 18-19 Oct-1983 (J.S. Ash).
Gallinago media Great Snipe
Formerly well-known on southward passage, and apparently still locally
common and regular in autumn in the southwest. Jackson refers to
Nov-Dec records from Entebbe, Basujju (Mubende), Bukakata (Masaka),
Butiaba on L. Albert and L. Ruaketenge (Ankole/Kigezi border). Mann
(1976) mentions a bird taken at Kumi (Teso) on 10 Nov 1913. More
recently A.P. Zeigler (in litt.) found parties in early Nov 1967 in
Kabalega Falls NP (one was collected to confirm identification), and
the species was found commonly at Mbarara during Nov in 1969, 1970
and 1971, with no less than 44 caught and ringed in 1970 (G.N.
Harrington et al.). It is clearly scarce in autumn in Rwenzori NP,
for M.P.L. Fogden (in litt.) recorded only a single bird in three
years, and there are but two reports from Kampala, singles on 12 Dec
1966 (DJP) and in Jan 1970 (S & H Tompkins). A bird at Kabalega
Falls NP on 1-2 Feb 1970 (Zeigler) was presumably wintering. The
only spring records are from Entebbe, where DJP saw parties totalling
17+ flying north in rainy conditions on 23 Apr 1967, and from
Kabalega Falls NP where Zeigler found one on 22 Apr 1968.
Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe
G.F. Archer found considerable numbers and shot at least ten in a
small marsh at Butiaba between 6 and 10 Dec 1901, and T.V. Fox
collected one at Kumi (Teso) on 24 Nov 1913 (Jackson 1938). One was
also reported shot in Ankole on 18 Nov 1949 (anon 1949). More
68 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
recently, C.F. Mann (in litt.) saw one at Tororo on 9 Oct 1967, and
M.P.L. Fogden (in litt.) encountered the species on some fifteen to
twenty occasions in Rwenzori NP during 1969-71 (dates not available).
Calidris alpina Dunlin
The only acceptable record is of a bird in breeding plumage in
Rwenzori NP in Apr 1971 (M.P.L. Fogden, D.A. Scott).
Calidris temminckii Temminck's Stint
Jackson gives only two records, from Butiaba on 3 Nov and from L.
Karenga (Ankole) on 12 Dec 1910, but up to eleven were reported at
Entebbe between 16 Nov and 4 Dec 1950 when four were caught and
ringed (anon 1950). This species now appears to occur regularly
in small numbers. Up to five were seen annually in Rwenzori NP
between 1964 and 1971, extreme dates 29 Aug and 13 Mar (J.N. Lock,
M.P.L. Fogden), and DAT found singles in Kabalega Falls NP on 10 Jan
and 29 Nov 1971. In the Kampala/Entebbe area single birds were seen
at Kajansi on 29 Jan 1968 (DJP) and on 31 Jan and 18 Feb 1971
(R. Frankum, R.G. Passmore, P. Hamel), and at Namulonge on 29 Nov
1970 (R. Frankum, R.G. Passmore). Recently, small numbers have
again been recorded at Kajansi from 23 Jan to 8 May 1982 (max. 10)
and from 13 Nov 1982 to 16 Apr 1983 (max. 8), with three also at
Entebbe on 31 Jan 1982 and two on 9 May 1982 and 19 Feb 1983 (M.J.
Carswell SiGe Ash
Calidris alba Sanderling
An uncommon visitor which has occurred only during the southward
passage period. G.F. Archer collected two, at Butiaba, on 10 and 15
Nov 1901 (Jackson). We have the following recent records: two
Entebbe 7 Sep and one 14 Sep 1967 (DJP); one Kabalega Falls NP
10 Sep 1968 (DAT); one Kaazi, near Kampala, 26 Oct 1970 (R. Frankum); .
one Entebbe 4 and 6 Oct 1983 (J.S. Ash).
Limicola falcinellus Broad-billed Sandpiper
One collected in Rwenzori NP by J.M. Lock on 28 Feb 1964 is now in
Nairobi Museum. Another was seen at the same site on 12-13 Oct 1970
(MBs Hogden)
Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit
The Annual Report of the Game and Fisheries Department for 1949
mentions a bird on the L. Albert shore at Butiaba on 14 Dec (anon
1949). The species was also listed as having occurred in both the
Rwenzori NP and the Kabalega Falls NP in the early 1960s, but we
cannot trace the details. One was seen in Rwenzori NP on 2 Oct 19/0
(M.P.L. Fogden), while a party of 15-20 occurred in Kabalega Falls NP
on 15 Jan 1972 (DAT), and one at Mabamba swamp, Entebbe, on 2/7 Nov
1975 (Carswell 1977). Recent records of up to six at Mabamba 19 Sep-
15 Nov 1982, six there on 18 Oct 1983 and 21 on 8 Nov 1983 (M.J.
Carswell), eight in Rwenzori NP on 30 Dec 1982 (A.B. Sheldon) and one
at Entebbe on 5 Jan 1984 (J.S. Ash) would suggest that this is now a
more regular visitor.
[Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit
There is a report of one at Entebbe on 29 Oct 1950, but no substan-
tiating details are available (anon 1950).
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 69
Arenaria interpres Turnstone
An uncommon visitor, recorded only during the southward passage
period. Jackson mentions an Oct bird on Sagitu Is., L. Victoria,
and two at Entebbe on 29 Sep. R. Wheater (in litt.) saw birds at
Kabalega Falls NP during the 1960s in Sep, Nov and Dec, and singles
were present at Entebbe on 18 Sep 1966 (DJP), in Rwenzori NP in
Dec 1969 (M.P.L. Fogden), and on Mayinja Is., L. Victoria, on 24
Oct 1982 (M.J. Carswell). During 1983, two were seen at Entebbe
Oneo Octeand another on 14 Oct, and one at Butiaba on 12 Oct (J.S.
Ash).
Phalaropus lobatus Red-necked Phalarope
One collected in Rwenzori NP by J.M. Lock on 14 Sep 1964 is in the
Nairobi Museum. Four more were at the same site from 7 to 21 Jan
1971 (M.P.L. Fogden).
Glareola nordmanni Black-winged Pratincole
_ Although Jackson had no records for Uganda, the following recent
records suggest that this species may occur regularly on spring
passage in the west: c200 by the White Nile, Kabalega Falls NP,
10 Apr 1966 (DJP); c500 heading northwest over Chobe, Kabalega
Falls NP, 2 Apr 1968 (A.P. Zeigler); a few Chobe 20 Apr 1969
(Zeigler); ct0OO Rwenzori NP 12 Apr 1970 (Zeigler). One (perhaps
more) was also present in Kabalega Falls NP on 5 Oct 1970 (DAT).
The Black-winged Pratincole crosses the Sudan and eastern Zaire
en route to and from the main winter quarters in southwestern Africa
(Chapin 1939, Cramp & Simmons 1983). Seth-Smith's specimens. and
records of large numbers in mid-Apr in northern Uganda (van
Someren 1922) were from Gondokoro, a place now in the Sudan. From
Kenya there are only a few passage records, all of single birds or
small groups.
Larus argentatus Herring Gull
Reported at Entebbe, but without details, in 1950, with two (adult
and immature) on 6-8 Aug and singles occasionally up to 28 Oct (anon
1950). An adult was seen at Entebbe on 5 Mar 1972 (Frankum 1972)
and a party of five on 21 Oct 1984 (M.J. Carswell). These were all
grey-backed birds.
Larus ichthyaetus Great Black-headed Gull
The only record remains that of a first summer bird, which remained
around Entebbe airport from 16 Apr to 25 Sep 1966 (Pearson 1971,
Mann 1971).
Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull
During 1971-72, at the time of the first major influx into Kenya and
Tanzania, the species was recorded in Uganda as follows: one in
breeding plumage near Kampala on 28 Mar 1971 (R. Frankum); an
immature Kabalega Falls NP on 29 Nov 1971 (DAT, G.S. Keith); and two
second-year birds L. Bisina (Teso) 31 Dec 1971-1 Jan 1972 (Rolfe &
Pearson 1973). More recently, singles have been reported at Jinja
on 20 Feb 1983 and at Entebbe on 10 and 12 Dec 1983 (J.S. Ash); also
at Katwe, Rwenzori NP, on 13 Nov 1984 (D.E. Pomeroy).
70 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
Sterna hirundo Common Tern
First recorded in 1983, when Ash (1985) found an adult at Entebbe on
25 Apr and a first year bird there on 13 Jun.
Otus scops Scops Owl
Jackson refers to Palaearctic birds collected at Mpumu on 20 Mar 1911
and at Kyetema, L. Victoria, in Jan. The former specimen is in the
British Museum (Nat. Hist.). We know of no satisfactory recent
records.
Caprimulgus europaeus Eurasian Nightjar
Jackson mentions specimens from Entebbe, Butiaba and Ruchiga (Kigezi),
all during Oct-Dec. The first arrival at Entebbe in 1950 is given as
2 Oct and said to be "early" (anon 1950). Again, we know of no recent
records, and this species must be far scarcer than in neighbouring
Kenya.
Streptopelia turtur Turtle Dove
First recorded in 1983, when J.S. Ash (1985) saw groups of up to five
at Entebbe between 9 Oct and 6 Nov, with a minimum of seven indivi-
duals involved, and also found another bird at Kibimba (Busoga) on
8 Nov.
Apus melba melba Alpine Swift
The wintering range of the Palaearctic race should taclde much of
western Uganda, but the only specimen assignable to this form is a
bird collected in the Rwenzoris in Feb (Lack 1956). A.P. Zeigler
(in litt.) recorded hundreds and occasionally thousands of Alpine
Swifts travelling north with Eurasian Swifts A. apus in Kabalega
Falls NP between 28 Jan and 2 Apr in 1968 and 1969, and these could
well have included Palaearctic birds.
Apus pallidus Pallid Swift
A bird collected at Moroto in Jan was assigned to the race brehmorum
(Lack 1956). This represents the only Uganda and East African
record.
Coracias garrulus Eurasian Roller
Far less common than in neighbouring Kenya, and occurring mainly as
a southward passage bird, it occurs regularly in the Kabalega Falls
NP, extreme dates 22 Oct and 15 Jan, and in the Kampala/Entebbe area
10 Oct to 26 Dec (max. 10). There are also Oct-Dec records from West
Nile, Rwenzori NP, Kigezi, Teso, Kibimba (Busoga), Mpumu and Nkosi Is,
L. Victoria. The only spring records are from Entebbe on 31 Mar 1968
and 9 Apr 1983 (J.S. Ash, M.J. Carswell, DJP; DAT, A.P. Zeigler).
Upopa epops epops Hoopoe
Jackson regarded the Palaearctic race as regular but rare. It occurs
mainly in dry country in the north. A.P. Zeigler (in litt.) found it
not uncommon in the northern parks from Jan to Apr. Stoneham (1928)
collected a bird of this race at Kitgum in Jan and believed that he
saw others.
Jynx torquilla Wryneck
There are five substantiated records of the Wryneck from Uganda: one
collected by W. Lowe at Palabek (Acholi) 24 Feb 1913, now in the
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 71
British Museum; one collected by R. Meinertzhagen at Entebbe 21 Oct
1915, also in the British Museum; one seen Kidepo Valley NP 11 Jan
1967 (A.P. Zeigler); one to two present Soroti Feb-Mar 1967 (Mann
1976); and one caught and ringed Kachong'a (Bukedi) 3 Mar 1971 and
there retrapped three days later (Rolfe & Pearson 1973). The
Entebbe bird shows the characters of the Corsican race tchusii.
Oriolus oriolus Golden Oriole
Apparently much less common than in Kenya, and recorded mainly on
passage during Oct-Nov and Mar-Apr. Jackson gave Teso District,
Mpumu and Entebbe as localities, while van Someren (1922) mentions
Elgon, and Chapin adds Kigezi. Stoneham (1931) collected it at
Kitgum in Nov and Apr. Recent recurds are of single birds and small
parties in the Kampala/Entebbe area, mid Oct-mid Nov and Mar; in
the Mbarara area mid Nov-Apr with some overwintering in 1969-70;
in the Rwenzori NP on both southward (mainly mid Nov) and northward
passages; in “\ahalega Falls NP in late Oct, Jan and early Apr;
around L. Kyoga in Oct; in Acholi in late Mar; and in Kidepo Valley
NP in Apr (M.J. Carswell, G.R. Harrington, M.P.L. Fogden, A.P.
Zeteler. J.5. Ash, DAT, DJP).
Cercotrichas galactotes Rufous Bush Chat
The only record is of a bird seen by A.P. Zeigler in Kidepo Valley
NP on the early date of 16 Oct 1969. This sighting was supported
by a full description (see Rolfe & Pearson 1973) and undoubtedly
refers to the Palaearctic race.
[Luscinia luscinia Sprosser
Although Vaurie (1959) mentions this species as occurring in Uganda,
we have not been able to trace the record. We know of no recent
occurrence.
Luscinia megarhynchos Nightingale
An uncommon visitor, but found in some numbers at L. Kyoga where it
is probably regular. There are specimens from Mpumu in the British
Museum dated 3 Dec 1914 and 3 Jan 1915, both nominate birds. Jackson
also mentions recording it at Butiaba in Nov. More recently, Rolfe
& Pearson (1973) found this species wintering commonly on the eastern
shore of L. Kyoga, and also recorded it in Nov 1971 and Jan 1972 at
L. Bisina (Teso). DJP had five records from the Kampala/Entebbe
area during 1966-68, dated Nov-Jan; of three netted, two were
nominate birds, but one at Kaazi on 9 Nov 1967 was of the eastern
race hafizi (Pearson 1972a). The only other records we have are of
Singles along the Nile during Feb and Mar, in Kabalega Falls NP and
West Nile.
Monticola saxatilis Rock Thrush
A locally common and regular visitor between Nov and Mar to Karamoja,
Teso and Bukedi. Further west, Jackson gives West Nile, Nakasongola
(northern Mengo), Entebbe and Mbarara as localities. We have recent
records from Arua in Jan 1968 (J. Mackenzie-Grieve); the Gulu area
16 Jan to 26 Mar and 29 Nov 1967 (J. Lindley); and Kabalega Falls NP
where A.P. Zeigler (in litt.) and R. Wheater (in litt.) saw a few
each year 1967-69, extreme dates 3 Dec and 14 Mar. Single birds
U7 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
were also seen in the Kampala/Entebbe area 18-28 Dec 1970, 10-17 Jan
1971, 8 Dec 1983 and 7 Jan 1984 (R.G. Passmore, J.S. Ash), and in
Rwenzori NP around 1970 (M.P.L. Fogden).
Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart
A locally common and regular visitor between Nov and Mar south to
Kabalega Falls NP, L. Kyoga and Tororo. Further south, Jackson lists
Mbarara and Entebbe as localities. More recently, one was seen at
Kaazi on 29 Jan 1967 (DJP) and one at Rwenzori NP on 3 Dec 1969
(M.P.L. Fogden), while several were present near Mbarara from 7 Nov
to 21 Mar 1969/70 and from 14 Nov to 4 Apr 1970/71 (G.R. Harrington
et al.).
Oenanthe pleschanka Pied Wheatear
A locally common to abundant visitor to Karamoja and Teso, with small
numbers south to Mbale and Tororo. It was seen occasionally in the
late 1960s around Gulu and in the Kabalega Falls NP between Dec and
Feb (J. Lindley, A.P. Zeigler, DAT). Recorded in the south and south-
west at Bugiri (Busoga) on 5 Mar 1968 (DJP, J.H. Phillips), at
Kampala on 13 Dec 1971 (R.G. Passmore), three or four times in
Rwenzori NP in 1969-71 (M.P.L. Fogden) and near Layontonde (Masaka)
on 12 Dec 1983 (J.S. Ash).
Acrocephalus griseldis Basra Reed Warbler
Known in Uganda from three records: one caught and ringed at Gaba,
near Kampala on 13 Nov 1966, and another on 25 Nov 1967 (Pearson
1972b)3; one seen about 30km E of Serere (Teso) on 20 Nov 1983 (J.S.
Ash).
Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler
Jackson mentions birds collected at Masindi in Nov and at Mbarara
in Feb. However, unless specimens can be located and examined,
these records need to be regarded with caution. Reed Warblers A.
scirpaceus occur quite commonly in Uganda, and specimens of this
species have frequently been misidentified in the past as Marsh
Warblers. Five Marsh Warblers were caught at Gaba, near Kampala,
between 19 Nov and 2 Dec 1967 (Pearson 1972a), one of which is now in
Nairobi Museum. Despite extensive netting over three seasons, M.P.L.
Fogden did not detect this species in Rwenzori NP.
Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler
Probably a regular passage bird in small numbers, but there are
rather few records. Jackson mentions a bird at Entebbe on 29 Sep
1916, and there are specimens in the British Museum from 'Kibusi'
(Lango) 31 Mar 1910 and Nyakabande (Kigezi) 26 Oct 1933. More
recently, during 1969-71, M.P.L. Fogden (in litt.) found small
numbers regularly on Oct-Nov and Apr passage in Acacias in the crater
area of Rwenzori NP. Other records are: one wintering and singing
in a Kampala garden Dec 1965 to Mar 1966, and again Nov 1966 to Feb
1967 and Dec 1967 to Mar 1968 (DJP); another bird Kampala 18 Mar
1966 and one to two more 1-5 Apr 1966 (DJP); one Awoja (Teso) 6 Nov
1966 (Mann 1976); one Entebbe 7 Oct 1967 (DJP); one Kabalega Falls
NP 27 Oct 1968 (A.P. Zeigler); one Kachong'a (Bukedi) 30 Mar 1971
(J.G. Rolfe, DJP); one singing Kampala 30 Nov 1971 (R. Frankum);
and one Mukono 26 Mar 1972 (per M.J. Carswell).
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 73
Hippolais languida Upcher's Warbler
The only satisfactory records are from the southeast: one caught and
ringed Kachong'a (Bukedi) 20 Mar 1971 and another seen at the same
site 30 Mar 1971 (J.G. Rolfe); one caught and ringed L. Bisina (Teso)
MuMaeoy eCleGe Rolfe); another seen L. Bisina 2 Apr 1972 (J.G.
Rolfe, DJP).
Locustella fluviatilis River Warbler
The only record is of a bird netted and collected at Mweya, Rwenzori
NP on 24 Nov 1970 (M.P.L. Fogden).
Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler .
Jackson mentions only a single occurrence in Uganda, a bird recorded
by G.F. Archer at Butiaba on 30 Nov 1901. Recent records are as
follows: up to three Gaba, near Kampala, 11 Dec 1966 to 15 Jan 1967,
and up to three again 23 Nov to 3 Dec 1967 (DJP); singles Entebbe
26 Mar and 9 Apr 1967, and up to three there 19-24 Dec 1967 (DJP);
one Kabalega Falls NP 21 Dec 1968 (A.P. Zeigler); singles Tororo
20 Mar and 5 Nov 1971, Kachong'a (Bukedi) 29 Mar 1971 and L. Bisina
(Teso) 28 Nov 1971, and at least four L. Bisina 30 Mar 1971 (Rolfe
& Pearson 1973); one Entebbe 6 Nov 1983 (J.S. Ash).
Sylvia communis Whitethroat
A regular and locally common winter visitor to south Karamoja, Teso
and Bukedi from Nov to early Apr. Elsewhere there are only a few
records, as follows: one collected at Parosa (Lango) 16 Feb 1910;
eight birds (six caught and ringed) in the Kampala/Entebbe area 1966-
68 between 19 Nov and 9 Feb (DJP); another at Entebbe 25 Dec 1971
(R. Frankum); one Gaba 21 Apr 1978 and one Entebbe 4 Dec 1982 (M.J.
Carswell). There are no records from the west. The great majority
of Uganda birds are referable to the eastern race icterops or
volgensis.
Phylloscopus collybita Chiffchaff
Jackson gives possible records from Mubende on 30 Mar and Entebbe on
2 Oct; the latter would represent a very early date for this species
in tropical Africa. Sight records from Kampala are also listed for
13 Feb and 23 Feb 1970 (Uganda Journal Bird Newsletter) but without
supporting details, and in view of the variety of plumage and leg
colours encountered in Willow Warblers P. trochilus in East Africa,
it seems best to treat these with caution.
Rolfe & Pearson (1973) netted two Chiffchaffs (race abietinus
and observed another in bush on the southern shore of L. Bisina
(Teso), alt. 1000m, on 19 Dec 1971. These were presumably on
passage to wintering grounds on Mt Elgon or Mt Kadam. Between 20
Dec 1971 and mid Mar 197] the species was found to be fairly common
in the Cheptui and Chebonnet valleys of NW Elgon, mainly at 2500-
3000m, and one was seen on NE Elgon in the heath zone at 4000m
near the Kenya border. There appear to be no records from the
Rwenzoris.
Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wood Warbler
Jackson refers to records from Mpumu on 26 Feb 1912 and from Nkosi
Is., L. Victoria, 12 Dec 1929. Both specimens are in the British
Museum. The latter was collected by C.R.S. Pitman who recorded
others present at the time. Recent records are as follows: one Gulu
74 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
12 Nov 1967 (J. Lindley); birds collected Impenetrable Forest 2 and
4 Apr 1967 (Keith et al. 1968); one collected Malabigambo Forest
(Masaka) 13 Feb 1968 (Friedmann & Williams 1969); one Mukono 29 Dec
1970 (P. Hamel); one netted Maramagambo Forest, Rwenzori NP, about
1969 (M.P.L. Fogden); singles Entebbe 27 Mar and 5 Apr 1983 (J.S.
Ash); singles in Teso, 14km wesrt of Serere 16 Nov, and 10km west of
Magoro 19 Nov 1983 (J.S. Ash); one near Mbarara 13 Dec 1983 (J.S.
Ash).
Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail
Quite frequent between Oct and Mar on streams above 2000m on the
northern side of Elgon (J.G. Rolfe), and wintering regularly in ones
and twos at about 2400m on Rwenzori above Kilembe (M.P.L. Fogden).
Jackson mentions occurrences at Kampala and Katonga River (Ankole),
while Stoneham (1929) records it from Acholi on the Pagea and Achwaa
Rivers. Other recent records from the west are of single birds in
the Impenetrable Forest on 9 Feb 1968 (DAT), from Kalinzu Forest on
16 Nov 1969 (Friedmann & Williams 1970), and from Kibale Forest on
Lie tane S725 AL, .
Motacilla alba White Wagtail
Jackson describes it as widely distributed in Uganda but nowhere
plentiful. Its numbers may have declined in Uganda, where it now
seems to be considerably scarcer than in Kenya. We have the following
recent records: a few each year in the late 1960s and early 1970s
in Kabalega Falls NP from mid Nov to Feb (A.P. Zeigler); recorded as
uncommon in Teso in the 1960s (C.F. Mann); a single, Rwenzori NP,
1 Jan 1966 (DJP, J.M. Lock) which seems to be the only park record;
singles in the Kampala area Dec 1969 to Jan 1970 and 26 Jan 1972
(per M.J. Carswell).
Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit
The only record is of one at Entebbe airport on 4 Dec 1966 (Pearson
1972a).
Anthus cervinus Red-throated Pipit
Not recorded for Uganda by Jackson, aithough Stoneham (1929) gives
it as not uncommon on migration in Lango. It seems to be much
scarcer than in neighbouring Kenya. We have occasional records of
up to 10 birds from Kabalega Falls NP 1965-72, dated 18 Dec to 22
Mar (DAT, DJP, R. Wheater, A.P. Zeigler), and two were seen in
Kidepo Valley NP on 26 Dec 1971 (DJP, J.G. Rolfe). M.P.L. Fogden
(in litt.) frequently recorded wintering birds in Rwenzori NP in
1969-71. Decidedly uncommon at L. Victoria: DJP saw singles near
Kampala 22 Jan 1967 and two Entebbe 24 Mar 1967, while J.S. Ash (in
litt.) saw singles Entebbe 6 Mar and | Apr 1983 and up to 12 there
on several dates between 9 Dec 1983 and 7 Jan 1984. Recent records
from Kibimba Rice Scheme (Busoga), 1981-83, dated 8 Nov to Feb, have
involved larger numbers (max. 40)(M.J. Carswell, J.S. Ash).
Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher
Although the nominate race passes through Rwanda (Van de weghe 1979)
we can trace no definite record or specimen from Uganda. The race
semitorquata (common on passage Rwanda) appears to be an uncommon
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda US)
and unobtrusive passage migrant in Uganda during Sep-Oct and Feb-Mar.
There has been confusion in the past, and a number of birds which
were probably semitorquata were identified in the field as Pied
Flycatchers F. hypoleuca.
The following records of semitorquata can be considered reliable:
males collected by Seth-Smith at Budongo on 22 Feb 1907 and at
Butiaba on 15 Mar 1907 (Chapin 1953); females collected by G.F.
Archer in the Rwenzori foothills (Toro) on 2 Feb and 3 Mar 1902
(specimens in the British Museum); a female ringed by M.P.L. Fogden
in Rwenzori NP on 5 Mar 1971. In addition, one ringed by R. Frankum
at Kampala on 7 Sep 1970 had a wing-length which would virtually
exclude hypoleuca; hypoleuca would be extremely unlikely anyway on
such an early date.
The following sight records are indeterminate on the evidence
available: | Kaazi 29 Sep 1966; a male Kampala 26 Feb 1968; one
‘Kampala 24 Sep 1968; a male Paraa Feb 1970 and another male Chobe
Mar 1970, both in Kabalega Falls NP; a female Mbarara 17 Mar 1970;
two birds Entebbe 8 Oct 1983. There seem to be no satisfactory
records of hypoleuca from the Sudan (G. Nikolaus, pers. comm.) or
indeed anywhere east of the northern fringes of the Congo forests.
The above birds are probably therefore all F. albicollis, the three
males at least of the race semitorquata since they lacked the full
neck collar (see Britton 1980b, also Pearson 1981).
Lanius senator Woodchat Shrike
Although rarely seen in Kenya, this species is a regular visitor in
small numbers to northern Uganda, south to Butiaba (Bunyoro), Acholi
and southern Karamoja, recorded between late October and mid Apr,
but mainly from Dec to early Apr. Further south there are records
from Mabira (Jackson), from Soroti on 20 Feb 1969 (DAT), from
Rwenzori NP on | Jan 1966 (DJP, J.M. Lock), from Kampala on 10 Mar
and 5 Apr 1970 (M.J. Carswell), and from Entebbe where two indivi-
duals were involved between | and 29 Mar 1983 (J.S. Ash).
APPENDIX: COMMONER PALAEARCTIC VISITORS TO UGANDA
Ciconia ciconia White Stork. Mainly a passage migrant, more common
in spring (late Feb-Apr) than in autumn (Nov); largest spring flocks
- up to thousands - have been seen in the east and northeast.
Anas querquedula Garganey. Locally abundant in the southwest,
especially in the Rwenzori NP, mainly Nov-Mar; also at times in
Karamoja and some central areas, and recently at the Kibimba Rice
Scheme in the southeast. Decidedly uncommon at L. Victoria.
Circus aeruginosus Marsh Harrier. Frequent to common in small
mumbers, late Oct-Mar, in the western rift; scarcer at Lakes Kyoga
and Victoria.
Circus macrourus Montagu's Harrier. Locally common to abundant in
the western rift, late Oct-Mar, and locally common in short grass-
land areas elsewhere in the north and east; scarce near L. Victoria.
76 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
Circus pygargus Pallid Harrier. Locally frequent to common in the
rift, and in the north and east, mainly Dec-Mar. |
Buteo buteo Common Buzzard. Mainly a passage migrant, with flocks
of up to many hundreds moving south at eastern, central and southern
localities early-mid Oct, and a few moving north in Mar. Small
numbers overwinter.
Falco tinnunculus Common Kestrel. Widespread and frequent to common
in many areas, Nov-Mar, especially in the north.
Falco subbuteo Hobby. A widespread and frequent passage migrant,
Oct-Nov and Mar-Apr, with occasional records Dec-Feb.
Charadrius hiaticula Ringed Plover. Locally frequent to common at
lakes, rivers and dams, late Sep-early May.
Charadrius asiaticus Caspian Plover. Recorded Sep-Apr, mainly from
the north and west. Common to abundant in short open grassland in
the northwest.
Tringa nebularia Greenshank. Widespread and locally common in small
numbers, Aug-Apr; a few oversummer.
Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper. Locally common to abundant near
L. Edward, Sep-Mar, but scarce to uncommon in most other areas.
Tringa ochropus Green Sandpiper. Widespread but rather solitary and
generally uncommon, Sep-Mar.
Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper. Widespread and common to very
abundant on lake edges and swampland, Aug-Apr, with a marked passage
Aug-Oct.
Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper. Widespread and generally common
to abundant, late Jul-Apr, with apparent passage Aug-Oct.
Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe. Locally common on swampy lake
margins Nov—-Mar.
Philomachus pugnax Ruff. Common to very abundant on the rift valley
lakes, especially L. Edward, late Aug-early May. Generally less
regular and in small numbers elsewhere.
Calidris minuta Little Stint. Widespread and locally common to
abundant, Aug-May, especially at L. Edward.
Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper. Common to abundant at L.Edward
mainly Aug-May, but little recorded elsewhere and scarce at L.
Victoria.
Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull. A regular and common visitor
to the major lakes, mainly Sep-May.
Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern. Abundant on Lakes Edward
and George, mainly’ Sep-Apr; generally uncommon on lakes and rivers
elsewhere.
Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Black Tern. Common to very
abundant, especially at the larger lakes, with many remaining through-
out the year.
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 77
Cuculus canorus Eurasian Cuckoo. A passage migrant, regular in small
numbers in the west, late Mar-Apr, but only occasionally recorded
Oct-Nov.
Apus apus Eurasian Swift. Mainly a passage migrant mid Aug-Oct,
especially in the south, but heavy northward migration has been
noted in the northwest during late Feb-Apr.
Merops apiaster Eurasian Bee-eater. A widespread, often abundant
passage migrant, Sep-early Nov and late Mar-Apr. There are few Dec-
Feb records.
Merops persicus Blue-cheeked Bee-eater. A common to abundant
visitor to lake edges and swampland, mainly Nov-Mar.
Delichon urbica House Martin. Locally abundant above 2000m on Mt
Elgon, Oct-Apr, and locally common at or near higher ground in
Karamoja. Scarce to uncommon elsewhere, with most records of
presumed passage birds Sep-Oct and Mar-May. There seem to be few
records from the southwestern highlands.
Hirundo rustica Eurasian Swallow. A very widespread and abundant
visitor, mainly late Aug-Apr, but with records in all months.
Riparia riparia Sand Martin. An abundant to very abundant visitor
to the larger lakes from Sep to early May.
Oenanthe isabellina Isabelline Wheatear. Common to abundant Nov-
Mar, in the north and east, especially in Karamoja, but there are
few records from the south or southwest.
Oenanthe oenanthe Northern Wheatear. Common to abundant in the north
and east Oct-Mar. Generally uncommon in the south and southwest
where it occurs mainly during Oct-Dec.
Saxicola rubetra Whinchat. Common to abundant, especially in tall
grasslands in the west, mainly Oct-early Apr.
Acrocephalus arundinaceus Great Reed Warbler. Locally frequent to
common on the northern shores of L. Victoria Dec-Mar, but otherwise
recorded only from Lakes Kyoga and Albert, the Victoria Nile and
Rwenzori NP.
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Sedge Warbler. Common to abundant, mainly
Dec-Apr, along the shores of lakes and larger rivers. Marked passage
is evident mid-late Apr.
Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler. Common to abundant in moist
thicket, mainly late Oct-early Apr, in the western rift valley, near
Lakes Victoria, Kyoga and Bisina, and along the Victoria Nile.
Hippolais pallida Olivaceous Warbler. Widespread and common to abun-
dant in eastern and northern Acacia areas, late Oct-early Apr.
Occurs in small numbers in the rift valley in the southwest, but is
almost unrecorded near L. Victoria.
Sylvia atricapilla Blackcap. Common to abundant above 2000m on the
Rwenzoris and on Mt Elgon, late Oct-Mar. There are occasional winter
records from elsewhere, e.g. from West Nile, Kabalega Falls NP, the
Kampala area, Teso and the Impenetrable Forest.
78 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
Sylvia borin Garden Warbler. Common to abundant near L. Victoria mid
Oct-Apr, with a marked passage late Oct-Dec. In the west and south-
west, in Teso and on Mt Elgon it is common to abundant on passage,
especially Nov-Dec, but few overwinter.
Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler. Widespread and common to
abundant late Sep-Apr, except in the dry north and northeast. Marked
passage Oct-early Nov and late Mar-Apr.
Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher. Mainly a passage migrant,
common and widespread Oct-early Dec and Mar-early Apr; decidedly
scarce in winter.
Anthus trivialis Tree Pipit. A widespread but generally rather un-
common visitor to open woodland and wooded grassland habitats, Oct-
Mar; locally abundant at higher altitudes.
Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail. Widespread and common to very
abundant in open habitats in the more humid areas, mainly Oct to
mid Apr, with passage indicated by augmented numbers late Oct-Nov
and late Mar to early Apr. Most birds can be racially assigned to
thunbergi or flava/thunbergi intergrades.
Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike. Common to abundant on southward
passage mid Oct to early Dec, especially in the western half of the
country; frequent late Mar-Apr. There is a single Feb record from
Entebbe.
Lanius isabellinus Red-tailed Shrike. Locally common in Teso and
Bukedi, and near Lakes Albert and Victoria, Nov to early Apr, but
few records from elsewhere. Evidence of passage Kabalega Falls NP
Nov and Mar to early Apr.
Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike. Widespread and common to abundant
on northward passage during Apr; uncommon Oct-Nov.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The writing of this paper would not have been possible without the
assistance of Dr M.J. Carswell, Dr J.M. Lock and A.P. Zeigler. We
are very grateful also to the following who have supplied us with
unpublished observations: J.S. Ash, M.P.L. Fogden, R. Frankun, P.
Hamel, G.R. Harrington, J. Lindley, J. Mackenzie-Grieve, C.F. Mann,
J.W. Mascher, R.G. Passmore, J.H. Phillips, J.G. Rolfe and R. Wheater.
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ANON. 1935, 1937, 1949, 1950, 1955. Uganda Game and Fisheries Depar-
tment Annual Reports. Entebbe: Government Printer.
ASH, J.S. 1985. Birds, including a hybrid, new to Uganda. Scopus 9:
133-136.
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common
Palaearctic migrant birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the
East Africa Natural History Society and National Museum 140: 1-38.
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda 79
ERittONe Pete 1980b. Ficedula flycatchers in East Africa. Scopus 4:21.
CARSWELL, M.J. 1977. The Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa in Uganda.
Scopus 1:49.
hOSoe= Birds, oF, thesKampala area. (SCopus Special
Suppl. No. 2.
CHAPIN, J.P. 1932-54. The Birds of the Belgian Congo. Bulletin of
the American Museum of Natural History 65, 75, 75A, 75B.
GrANGHYene.A.(ed.) 1980. S.A.O.S. Checklist of Southern African
Birds. Pretoria: Southern African Ornithological Society.
CRAMP, S. & SIMMONS, K.E.L. (eds.) 1983. Birds of the Western
Palearctic. Vol.III. Oxford, London and New York: Oxford University
Press.
-EGGELING, W.G. 1951. Ringed birds recovered in Uganda. The Uganda
Journal, bj: (17=25:.
ELLIOTT, C.C.H. 1972. An ornithological survey of the Kidepo Valley
National Park, northern Uganda. Journal of the East Africa
Natural History Society and National Museum 129: 1-31.
ELTRINGHAM, S.K. 1973. Fluctuations in the numbers of wildfowl on
an equatorial hippo wallow. Wildfowl 24: 81-87.
FRANKUM, R. 1972. Herring Gull in Uganda. EANHS Bulletin 1972:81-82.
FRIEDMANN, H. & WILLIAMS, J.G. 1969. The birds of Sango Bay forests,
Buddu County, Masaka District, Uganda. Contributions in Science,
Los Angeles 162: 1-48.
NO7Oe athe binds of Kalinzln tonest,
southwestern Ankole, Uganda. ibidem 195: 1-27.
HOPKINS, G.H.E. 1946. Some recent Uganda bird records. Journal of
the East Africa Natural History Society 19: 103-106.
KEITH, G.S. 1968. Notes on birds of East Africa, including additions
to the Avifauna. American Museum Novitates 2321.
» LWOMEY, A., FRIEDMANN, H. & WILLIAMS, J.G. 1968. The
avifauna of the Impenetrable Forest, Uganda. ibidem: 2389.
Pitt 5o. . the species of Apus. Tbis 98: 34-62.
MANN, C.F. 1971. Distributional notes of some Uganda birds. Bulletin
Seeeneenritish Ornithologists’ Club 91: 111-113.
1973. Some recent raptor records from East Africa. FEANHS
Bulletin 1973: 96-98.
ieoaethe birds of “eso Dastrict, Uganda. Journal of ‘the
East Africa Natural History Society and National Museum 156: 1-16.
MEINERTZHAGEN, R. 1922. Notes on some birds from the Near East and
PempGropieal East Africa. Ibis 64: 1-74.
80
PE
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
ARSON, D.J. 1971. The occurrence of the Great Black-headed Gull
Larus ichthyaetus in Uganda. Bulletin of the British
Ornithologises: (‘Club Oly Wie.
1972a. Some migrant bird records from the Kampala
area, Uganda. EANHS Bulletin 1972: 27-29.
197 2b). + The wintering and migration of Palaearctic
passerines at Kampala, southern Uganda. This 114: 43-60.
1981. The identity of two Ficedula flycatchers
collected recently in Kenya. Scopus 4: 21.
1986. A Levant Sparrowhawk Accipiter brevipes
specimen from Uganda. Scopus 10: 107.
ROLFE, J.G. & PEARSON, D.J. 1973. Some recent records of Palaearc-
tic migrants from eastern Uganda. EANHS Bulletin 1973: 62-66.
STONEHAM, H.F. Field notes on a collection of birds from Uganda.
1926 Pt. I this W2(2)2 26-913 1928 Pt. 2 ibis 12a ean
1929 Pt. 3. Ibis 12(5): 267=292: 1931 Pe. 4 This 13 eneer
VAN SOMEREN, V.G.L. 1922. Notes on the birds of East Africa.
Novitates Zoologicae 29: 1-246.
VANDE WEGHE, J-P 1979. The wintering and migration of Palaearctic
passerines in Rwanda. Le Gerfaut 69: 29-43.
VAURIE, C. 1959. The birds of the Palearctic fauna. Passeriformes.
London: Witherby.
WHITE, C.M.N. 1965. A revised Checklist of African non-passerine
birds. Lusaka: Government Printer.
GAZETTEER
Achwa (= Aswa) River Sh5 (f/f Ie) 31. SOE
Agua (= Agogo) River 2.54 N 3225
Arua 3.01 N 30.5508
Awoja 1.40 N 33.44 E
Bisina (= Salisbury) Lake 1.38 N 33.5628
Budongo Forest 1.45 N 3135 0E
Bugiri 0735) N 33.42) E
Bukakata 0.18 N 32.02 E
Buligi 2.19 N 3223
Busujju County 0.20 N BARE 0) 5
Butiaba 1.49 N 30.19 E
Chahafi, Lake 2 ees 29.47 E
Chebonnet Valley 1.18 N 34.31 E
Cheptui Valley 1.17 N 34529 E
Chobe 2 ON 32. ie
Damba Island 0.00 32. Aie re
Edward, Lake O57 25'S 29.30 E
Elgon, Mount AOS aN 34.33 E
Entebbe 0.04 N 32028) 6
Gaba 0.15 N 32.3875
The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
Gondokoro (SUDAN) 4.47 N SYN cipal
Gulu 247 N S21St
Ibanda 0.08 S 30.28 E
Impenetrable Forest 1.00 S$ 29.40 E
Jinja 0.26 N BFE
Kaazi 0.14 N 323 &
Kabalega (= Murchison) Falls NP Bee SN Sin Oak:
Kachong'a 0.58 N 34.03 E
Kadam, Mount 1.45 N 34.42 E
Kajansi 0.13 N SBE
Kalinzu Forest G.25.S $0):05°E
Kampala 0.19 N 32534 £
Karenga (= Karengye), Lake 0.54 § 30.07 E
Katonga River 0.05 S 3 1R5&:
Katwe 0.08 S 7a ies gaa i
Kibanga Port 0.12 N BP i
Kibale Forest 0.30 N 30.25 E
Kibimba 0.42 N 33o 17 E
Kibusi Unlocated: Lango
Kidepo Valley NP 3.50 N S35 4o0 8:
Kikorongo, Lake O201"S 30.01 E
Kilembe O22) N 30.01 E
Kitgum 3.18 N 527535
Kumi 1.29 N 33.56 E
Kyetema Unlocated: on Murchison Gulf,
Ly Victoria .
Kyoga, Lake 1.30 N 33.00 E
Layontonde 022375 31.09 E
Longorokipi 2.24 N 33.54 E
Lwampanga 1.30 N 322530) E
Mabamba Swamp
Mabira 0.30 N 32555 E
Magoro 1.44 N 34.06 E
Malabigambo Forest 0-575 3133508
Maramagambo Forest 0.33.8 29S
Masindi 1.41 N 31.43 E
Mayinja Island 0.09 N 32.36 E
Mbale 1.05 N 34.10 £
Mbarara Os37+S 40539. E
Mityana 0.24 N 32,03. E
Moroto Dade N 34.40 E
Mpumu 0.14 N 32.49
Mubende 0.34 N BY veo
Migisha (= Kayumba), Lake 2 20.'S 29.48 E
Mukono 0.22 N 32 4545
Mweya O71 Ss ZO Sane
Nabiswera 1.28 N 32 ah
Nabugabo, Lake O.22) 5 S\ IS Zan
Nakasongola i. 19 N 32.28 E
Nakivali, Lake 0.47 S 30 530e.
Namulonge 0.32 N 32.57. 2
82 The less common Palaearctic migrant birds of Uganda
Nkosi Island OF445S 32.20 E
N'kungula (? = Nkugute) Lake 0.20 S 30.06 E
Nyakabande Oe iiaS 29.44 E
Pader Gem 2.48 N 33.03 E
Pagea (= Pager) River 3.09 N 32.531 1E
Pakwach 2.28 N 31 S0RE
Palabek 3.26 N 32.341 5
Pamdero 2 24 IN 3154 ae
Paraa 218) N 31.35 E
Parango 23 Tia 32.56 E
Parosa Unlocated: Lango
Ruakatenge, Lake 0.53 S$ 30.05 E
Ruchiga County 1205, S 30.00 E
Rwenzoris (Mts) 0.20 N 30.00 E
Rwenzori (= Q.Elizabeth) NP O- 15eS 30.00 E
Sagitu Island 0.01 S 33.40 E
Serere 31 N 32). 204s
Soroti 1.43 N B\SI S/o
Toro crater lakes 0.05 §S 29. ne
Tororo 0.42 N S44 al ae
Wamala, Lake 0.22 N 28.58 E
D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, Box
30197, Nairobi and D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi
(Received 20 August 1986)
83
THE AVIFAUNA OF OL DOINYO OROK, A FOREST ISLAND:
INITIAL FINDINGS
men enennun, C..Glchuki, J. Darlington and F. Ng" weno
01 Doinyo Orok is an isolated hill just north of Namanga, Kajiado
District, some 150km south of Nairobi. It is composed of folded
Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the basement system, mostly
micaceous schists (Joubert 1957). The hill rises to a maximum
height of 2548m froma peneplain at 1300m; it extends for 15km
from north to south and 10km from west to east. The Namanga Forest
Reserve, gazetted in 1979, incorporates the entire hill.
The vegetation on the lower slopes is predominantly woodland with
areas of bushed grassland. The southern half of the hill, however,
forms a basin of internal drainage 18km in area with a single
outlet on the south, the Namanga River; this basin is clothed in
evergreen forest with a closed canopy and generally sparse ground
cover, interspersed with clearings densely overgrown with shrubs,
grass and herbs. The slopes are very steep and soils appear to be
unstable; the valley bottoms are often swampy.
The forest is separated by 22km froma small forest tract on Mt
Longido to the south. The extensive highland forest of Mt
Kilimanjaro is some 65km away. Forest 'islands' such as 01 Doinyo
Orok are often of great biological interest, yet the hill appears
to have been largely neglected by naturalists, possibly deterred by
the precipitous slopes and numerous buffalo Syncerus caffer.
We camped in the forest from 21 to 24 March 1986, following an
initial visit by CG from 14 to 17 February. Our base was in the
river valley at 1780m, at the point where the river leaves the
swamps over a rock barrier, before it plunges steeply down towards
Namanga town. The surrounding area was dry at the time of our visit,
we experienced no rain and early morning dew was light.
THE AVIFAUNA
Birds were trapped during the morning and evening of 22 and 23 March
and the morning of 24 March. Four pairs of 12m mist nets were set
on the western slope of the valley, well inside the forest but
within 150m of the river. The following species were caught (numbers
in brackets):
Lemon Dove Aplopelia larvata (6), Pale-breasted Illadopsis
Trichastoma rufipennis (2), Yellow-whiskered Greenbul Andropadus
latirostris (2), Stripe-cheeked Greenbul Andropadus milanjensis
(1), Placid Greenbul Phyllastrephus placidus (3), Ruppell's
Robin Chat Cossypha semirufa (4), White-starred Forest Robin
Pogonocichla stellata (5), Olive Sunbird Nectarinia olivacea (2),
Abyssinian Crimson-wing Cryptospiza salvadorii: (3).
Other species were recorded in or over the forest, or along the
river, as follows:
Scopus 10: 83-86, December 1986
84 The avifauna of Ol Doinyo Orok: a forest island
Black Stork Ciconia nigra, African Black Duck Anas sparsa, Rufous
Sparrowhawk Accipiter rufiventris, Mountain Buzzard Buteo tachardus,
Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba delegorguei, Tambourine Dove Turtur
tympanistra, Olive Pigeon Columba arquatrix, Hartlaub's Turaco
Tauraco hartlaubi, Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus, Red-chested
Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius, African Wood Owl Ciccaba woodfordi,
Montane Nightjar Caprimulgus poliocephalus, Silvery-cheeked
Hornbill Bycanistes brevis, African Rock Martin Hirundo fuligula,
White-headed Roughwing Psalidoprocne albiceps, Black Roughwing
P. pristoptera, Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis, White-necked Raven
Corvus albicollis, Northern Olive Thrush Turdus abyssinicus, Grey-
backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura, Willow Warbler Phyllo-
scopus trochilus, Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, Garden Warbler S.
borin, White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher Melaenornis chocolatina, Dusky
Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta, Paradise Flycatcher Tersiphone viridis,
African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp, Mountain Wagtail M. clara,
Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla, Tropical Boubou Laniarius
barbatus, Sharpe's Starling Cinnyricinclus sharpii, Collared
Sunbird Anthreptes collaris, Variable Sunbird Nectarinia venusta,
Montane White-eye Zosterops poliogastra, Baglafecht Weaver Ploceus
baglafecht, Spectacled Weaver P. ocularis and Oriole Finch
Linurgus olivaceus.
Although conditions were dry, there was evidence that several
species were breeding or had recently bred. Two White-starred
Forest Robins caught were in fresh juvenile plumage, while a juvenile
Olive Sunbird was just initiating primary and body moult. A pair of
Northern Olive Thrushes was followed by a dependent juvenile. One
each of the Rtippell's Robin Chats and Placid Greenbuls captured had
a well-developed brood patch, and a pair of Yellow-whiskered
Greenbuls was incubating eggs. A male Baglafecht Weaver was
building on a half-completed nest over the river, and Lemon Dove
and Bronze-naped Pigeon males were displaying vigorously to
attendant females.
Most of the species recorded range widely in the highlands of
central Kenya and northern Tanzania. The Tawny Eagle (seen perched
on large trees along the river) and Drongo (seen flying from the
river into the forest) were presumably intruders from the
surrounding woodland. Certain other records are noteworthy:
Rufous Sparrowhawk. One immature bird near the river, 24 March.
This is an extension of its Kenyan range, but it is recorded from
Arusha, northern Tanzania (Britton 1980).
White-headed Roughwing. This record adds another site to its
fragmented eastern range.
Pale-breasted Illadopsis. Two illadopses, apparently adults, were
captured together at dusk on 22 March. Their specific identify was
determined by use of the key in Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1960), and
confirmed from examination of specimens in the National Museum,
Nairobi. They were separated from the Mountain Illadopsis
Trichastoma pyrrhopterum by the generally paler underparts and the
The avifauna of Ol Doinyo Orok: a forest island 85
absence of olive-brown on the belly. There was, however, a
considerable amount of olive-brown on the flanks, suggesting that
these birds might be closer to distans, the eastern Tanzanian race,
than the nominate western race (rufipennis). This record constitutes
a remarkable extension of range; the nearest known population is in
the East Usambaras, more than 280km away.
Stripe-cheeked Greenbul. This extends the species’ range north-
westwards; it is known from Mts Meru and Kilimanjaro.
White-starred Forest Robin. The race of these birds is uncertain,
although the proximity of Mts Meru and Kilimanjaro would suggest
guttifer (Britton 1980). The two young birds captured were in
standard yellow and black juvenile plumage. However, another bird,
otherwise in full adult plumage, had several head feathers clearly
tipped with green (above and behind the eye, and on the forehead).
This suggests it might have moulted from the green immature stage,
absent in guttifer (Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1960). Specimens are
needed.
Montane White-eye. The race mbuluensis is already recorded from 01
Doinyo Orok, and from the nearby Longido (Britton 1980).
Oriole Finch. At least two pairs, one accompanied by an immature
male, frequented the riverbank near the campsite. They waded in the
shallow water passing over the rocks and appeared to feed there,
perhaps on algae. The very green upperparts and flanks, contrasting
with brighter yellow bordering the black of the neck and chest,
indicated that they were of the race kilimensis rather than the
yellower, western elgonensis. This is the first Kenyan record of
kilimensis, which is known from the northern and eastern Tanzanian
highlands (Britton 1980).
DISCUSSION
Some avifaunal impoverishment is expected in a small forest island
such as Ol Doinyo Orok, and this was reflected in the small number
of species recorded - 47 in all. Of course, this number would rise
with more time spent in the forest. The presence of Stripe-cheeked
Greenbul and Oriole Finch of the race kilimensis indicates a stronger
affinity with the forests of northern Tanzania than with the more
distant highland block of central Kenya.
The discovery of Pale-breasted Illadopsis at O01 Doinyo Orok is
most surprising; it is noteworthy, however, that this is the only
member of the genus to extend east of the central Kenya highlands.
Its present-day distribution is disjunct, with nominate rufipennis
not recorded east of Kakamega Forest, and distans hitherto unknown
west of the Ngurus. Presumably its distribution was once more
extensive; the O01 Doinyo Orok population might be a relict of a
larger range. Alternatively it might have been established by
wanderers from the East Usambaras. In either case, its apparent
absence from Mts Meru and Kilimanjaro and the Pares is odd.
86 The avifauna of Ol Doinyo Orok: a forest island
This interesting forest requires more study, in particular the
judicious collection of specimens. Its condition should also be
monitored. Although we saw few signs of serious disturbance, its
small size, apparent fragility, and proximity to Namanga township
must cause some anxiety. Destruction on a large scale would be of
more than scientific importance, as Namanga depends for its water
supply on the preservation of this catchment area.
L.A. Bennun, Box 21149 Nairobi, C. Gichuki and J. Darlington,
National Museums of Kenya, Box 40658 Nairobi, F. Ng'weno, Box 42271
Nairobi.
(Received 14 July i986)
Montane birds of the Bwindi Forest 87
MONTANE BIRDS OF THE BWINDI (IMPENETRABLE) FOREST
L.A. Bennun
The Bwindi (formerly Impenetrable) Forest in Kigezi, southwest Uganda,
is notable both for its rich avifauna, including many of the East
Zaire montane endemics, and its great altitudinal span (Keith et al.
1969, Prigogine 1985). However, the forest has been relatively
little studied by ornithologists, possibly owing to its rugged
topography (particularly severe in the higher southern section).
An account of the avifauna based on the results of several collecting
expeditions is given in Keith et al. (1969), with some additional
records in Friedmann & Williams (1970) and Britton (1980).
In August-September 1984 I spent four weeks observing and mist~-
netting birds in a section of the forest as a member of the Cambridge
Bwindi Forest Study Group. The more interesting altitudinal records
are presented and discussed here, and notes are given on the
behaviour of some little-known species. Details of procedures and
other findings of the study may be found elsewhere (Clarke & Bennun,
in prep.) as may descriptions of topography and vegetation
(Hamilton 1969, Keith et al. 1969). Observations were made at
altitudes between 2100m and 2440m, and in all forest types
described by Hamilton (1969); however, his ridgetop, hillslope,
hilltop and gulley forest are referred to collectively as 'hillside
forest" here.
Poicephalus gulielmi Red-fronted Parrot
Recorded at 2200m. Keith et al. (1969) do not list this species;
Britton (1980) records it "at 2500-2700m in the Impenetrable Forest",
surely an error as the forest barely reaches 2500m.
Apaloderma narina brachyurum Narina's Trogon
Britton (1980) gives 2150m as the maximum altitude for brachyurum.
Here it was recorded to 2420m, indicating a substantial altitudinal
overlap with the Bar-tailed Trogon A. vittatum (known from 1550-2500m
in Bwindi). This is surprising as the two species are usually
altitudinally segregated, with vittatum at higher levels. In
another Albertine Rift forest, the Itombwe Mts, brachyurum is
confined to the lowlands (under 1500m); nominate narina occurs
above 2300m and vittatum at altitudes in between (Prigogine 1980).
Mesopicos elliotii Elliot's Woodpecker
This uncommon woodpecker was recorded at 2320m (Britton (1980)
records it at "medium elevations"). The Olive Woodpecker M. griseo-
cephalus occurs at the same altitude in Bwindi, while in Itombwe the
two are completely separated altitudinally, elliotii being found only
below 2000m (Prigogine 1980).
Dicrurus adsimilis coracina Drongo
Several records from tall valley forest at 2130m, considerably
higher than the 1700m maximum recorded by Britton (1980) for this
race.
Parus funereus Dusky Tit
Single birds recorded twice in valley forest at 2130m; Britton
(1980) records this species up to 1700m.
Scopus 10: 87-91, December 1986
88 Montane birds of the Bwindi Forest
Dryocichloides poliopterus Grey-winged Ground Robin
A pair with dependent juvenile were resident in vartey forest at
2130 ms) Bev tton C980), cecordsert touZ2000im-
Apalis binotata, A. jacksoni, A. porphyrolaema, A. ruwenzori Masked,
Black-throated, Chestnut-throated and Collared Apalises.
The ecological relationship between these species deserves study.
All four were common, up to three being seen in the same bird party.
Superficial observation suggests that they are ecologically
separated by feeding habits and habitat preferences. A. ruwenzori
fed only low in the undergrowth, binotata usually in the upper
undergrowth, the lower canopy or dense hanging vines, while
jacksoni was virtually always in the canopy. A. porphyrolaema was
most flexible in feeding position, descending even to the ground,
but most often foraging in the canopy. It and jacksoni appeared to
feed mainly by sally-gleaning, the other two mainly by perch-
gleaning. Ail but one record of porphyrolaema were from hillside
forest; jacksoni showed an equally strong preference for valley
forest, and these two species were never seen together.
Bathmocercus cerviniventris Black-faced Rufous Warbler
Recorded in valley forest to 2130m. Britton (1980) gives 1800m
as the maximum altitude reached in Uganda.
Bradypterus graueri Grauer's Rush Warbler
Some behavioural observations of this threatened species supplement
those given by Vande weghe (1983). The birds were abundant in
parts: of Mubwindi Swamp. They appeared only briefly above the sedge,
dropping suddenly after a low fluttering flight of a few metres
during which a short rapid rattling trill was often uttered. The
"soft, melodious and unobtrusive" song described by Vande weghe was
not heard; calls consisted of the same rattling trill, about 1s in
duration, preceded or followed by loud kwik or chup notes, e.g.
kwik-kwik-trrr, kwik-kwik-trrr ... Birds were also heard to duet,
one calling quickly kwik-kwik-kwik ... while the other gave excited
chattering cries.
A bird displaying near the top of a sedge stem fluttered its wings
above its back very fast, calling rapidly and without pause chup-chup-
chup-trrr, chup-chup-chup-trrr ... The display ceased abruptly after
90s as another bird flew in to the sedge some 2m away; the
displaying warbler flew towards it at once and both vanished from
view.
Melaenornis ardesiaca Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher
The commonest call of this East Zaire montane endemic was a high
thin sree-sree, often followed by a harsh tjak-tjak. A pair moving
together high in the trees made a variety of squeaky sounds,
including a loud rising skwee-SKWEE. A displaying bird made
repeated short stuttering flights at about 3m from the ground,
waving its tail from side to side and calling sharply tchut-tchut-
€chue (52) aS alee Lew.
Montane birds of the Bwindi Forest 89
Batis diops Rwenzori Batis
The most frequent and distinctive call of these batises is not
described by Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1973) or Lippens & Wille (1976);
it was a low ventriloqual whistle, theeoooo...theeoooo..., a series
of long monotonous eerie notes reminiscent of the call of the Grey-
headed Bush Shrike Malaconotus blanchoti.
Trochocercus albiventris White-bellied Crested Flycatcher
One captured at 2440m, considerably above the 2150m given in
Britton (1980). The sympatry of this species with the White-tailed
Crested Flycatcher T. albonotatus and the Dusky Crested Flycatcher
T,. nigromitratus is notable. In this study albonotatus was found
only above 2380m, but it has been recorded down to 2150m;
nigromitratus was seen at 2130m and is known to 2150m (Britton
1980). While nigromitratus and albonotatus may be altitudinally
segregated, albiventris appears to overlap altitudinally with the
entire range of both. In Itombwe the three are much better separated;
albiventris occurs at intermediate altitudes, showing some vertical
but no horizontal overlap with nigromitratus (occurring below 1500m)
and albonotatus (occurring above 1800m: Prigogine 1980).
Dryoscopus gambensis Northern Puffback
Recorded to 2380m; Britton (1980) limits it to 2200m.
Nectarinia ludovicensis Montane Double-collared Sunbird
A number of sightings confirm the supposition of Britton (1980) that
this species might be commoner than the few previous records (at
2500m) suggested. Although in Zaire and Rwanda it is usually found
above 2500m (Britton 1980) it was recorded here at 2170m, 2200n,
2230m, 2290m, 2300m (twice), and 2440m, at the edge of hillside
forest and in clearings. The Northern Double-collared Sunbird N.
preussi appeared to be rarer at these altitudes, only once being
seen above 2100m; it is known, though, from 1200-2400m (Keith et
al. 1969) indicating a substantial altitudinal overlap with the
closely related ludovicensis.
Nectarinia verticalis Green-headed Sunbird
Only one record, at 2230m; its apparent scarcity in the montane
forest may be due to the presence of the very similar Blue-headed
Sunbird N. alinae, which is abundant. In Itombwe the two have a
little vertical overlap below 1500m (Prigogine 1980).
Malimbus rubricollis Red-headed Malimbe
Regularly seen in valley forest at 2130m, a considerable altitudi-
nal extension from the 1700m limit given in Britton (1980).
Ploceus alienus Strange Weaver
Lippens & Wille (1976) describe the voice as an occasional low
twittering; in Bwindi, however, these birds were quite vocal. The
contact call was an intermittent chak...chak,chak, given faster
when the birds were alarmed. The song was a sweet, slurry little
sisisi-sweesi-si, sisweesi-si or a shorter light see-swoo-see-see.
They also often gave a plaintive descending whistle tweetweetweetoooo.
90 Montane birds of the Bwindi Forest
New Species Records for the Montane Forest
Keith et al. (1969) and Keith (1980) listed those forest birds in
Bwindi known both from lowland forest (1200m and under) and montane
forest (2100m and above). However, the two lists are not identical.
Three species from the 23 listed in 1969 are omitted from the later
list: these are the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater Merops oreobates,
Apalis jacksoni and Nectarinia preussi. All fulfil the require-
ments for inclusion according to Table 1 in Keith et al. (1969).
Four extra species are added to the list in Keith (1980),
presumably on the basis of additional records although this is not
stated. Thus 27 species should have been listed in all.
To these may be added five more from records above 2100m obtained
in this study, namely the Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill Bycanistes
subcylindricus, Cameroon Sombre Greenbul Andropadus curvirostris,
Dryocichloides poliopterus, Parus funereus and Malimbus rubricollis.
The total list thus includes 32 (18 per cent) of the 175 forest
birds recognized by Keith (1980).
Four species previously known only at ‘intermediate’ levels in
Bwindi (1500-1800m) were recorded here in montane forest. These
are Shelley's Greenbul Andropadus masukuensis, Placid Greenbul
Phyllastrephus placidus, Dicrurus adsimilis and Bathmocercus
cerviniventris. All but A. masukuensis would also be expected to
occur in lowland forest (Britton 1980) and their apparent absence
from these altitudes in Bwindi is probably due merely to incomplete
knowledge of the avifauna.
DISCUSSION
Bwindi is remarkable for the presence of forest extending in a
continuum from lowland to montane regions. A sizeable proportion
of the forest birds (at least 18 per cent, and probably more) appear
to exploit this entire range. This study has also shown that, for
a number of species or races, the altitudes attained in Bwindi are
higher than those achieved elsewhere in East Africa. Some birds
which are known elsewhere only from ‘transition' forest, up to
1700-1800m, are recorded in Bwindi from montane forest above 2100m.
These records suggest that, contrary to the view of Keith (1980),
certain species have taken advantage of the continuous forest to
penetrate to altitudes where they do not usually occur.
Altitudinal distribution in the forests of the Itombwe Mts, which
have an even greater vertical span than Bwindi, has been documented
by Prigogine (1980). There, a number of lowland species are
considered to be limited to forest under 1500m by the presence at
that altitude of one of a series of floristic discontinuities; these
species include Malimbus rubricollis and Dicrurus adsimilis coracinus.
In Bwindi the forest shows a floristic continuum (Hamilton 1969, 1975)
and both these species reach the montane area. It is notable, too,
that pairs or triplets of species in the genera Apaloderma,
Mesopicos, Trochocercus and Nectarinia show much more extensive
altitudinal overlap in Bwindi than they do in Itombwe, where they
are presumed to be separated largely through competition. The
Montane birds of the Bwindi Forest 91
factors determining vertical distribution are complex and varied
(Prigogine 1980) and much further study will be required to
establish the reasons for these interesting differences.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My thanks to all the sponsors of the Cambridge Bwindi Forest Study
Group, who made it possible for us to visit Uganda, and to the
Ugandan Forest Department and National Research Council for research
permission. Longmans U.K. Ltd. kindly donated field guides; G.C.
Backhurst loaned mist-nets; and James Clarke, Vicky Charles-Jones,
Hazel Smith and Andrew Polkey helped with trapping. Sincere thanks
to the many other people who assisted in various ways, and in
particular to D.E. Pomeroy and D. Tukahabwa.
REFERENCES
CLARKE, J. & BENNUN, L.A. (in prep.). Report of the Cambridge Bwindi
Forest Study Group, 1984.
FRIEDMANN, H. & WILLIAMS, J.G. 1970. Additions to the known avifauna
of the Bugoma, Kibale and Impenetrable Forests, West Uganda. Los
Angeles County Museum Contributions to Science 198: 1-20.
HAMILTON, A.C. 1969. The vegetation of southwest Kigezi. Uganda
Journal 32: 157-164.
1975. A quantitative analysis of altitudinal zonation
in Uganda forests. Vegetatio 30: 99-106.
KEITH, S. 1980. The avifauna of the Impenetrable Forest, Kigezi,
Uganda with special reference to altitudinal distribution.
Proceedings of the Fourth Pan-African Ornithological Congress
1976: 159-167.
TWOMEY, A., FRIEDMANN, H. & WILLIAMS, J. 1969. The
avifauna of the Impenetrable Forest, Uganda. American Museum
Novitates 2389: 1-41. :
LIPPENS, L. & WILLE, H. 1976. Les Oiseaux du Zaire. Tielt: Lannoo.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1973. African Handbook of
Birds. Series III, Vol. 2. Birds of west central and western
Africa. London: Longman.
PRIGOGINE, A. 1980. The altitudinal distribution of the avifauna
in the Itombwe forest, Zaire. Proceedings of the Fourth Pan-
African Ornithological Congress 1976: 169-184.
1985. Conservation of the avifauna of the forests of
the Albertine Rift. pp 277-295 in Diamond, A.W. & Lovejoy, T.E.
(eds) Conservation of Tropical Forest Birds. ICBP Technical
Publication no. 4. Cambridge: ICBP.
VANDE WEGHE, J.P. 1983. Sympatric occurrence of the White-winged
Warbler Bradypterus carpalis and Grauer's Rush Warbler B. graueri
in Rwanda. Scopus 7: 85-88.
L.A. Bennun, Box 21149, Nairobi. (Received 30 September 1986)
o2
VOCAL VARIATIONS IN TWO FOREST APALISES OF EASTERN
AFRICA, APALIS (PORPHYROLAEMA) CHAPINI
AND A. MELANOCEPHALA
Frangoise Dowsett-Lemaire
Apalis is an important genus of forest warblers in Africa whose
species limits are often uncertain (Hall & Moreau 1970). The study
of vocalizations may help to clarify relationships which are unclear
from morphology alone (e.g. Chappuis 1980, Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire
1980). For example it was shown that the two forms alticola and
cinerea of the Grey Apalis Apalis cinerea - given specific status by
Hall & Moreau (1970) - had similar voices and reacted strongly to
playback of each other's song in Kenya and Zambia. These were
therefore considered conspecific, a move which also made morpholo-
gical sense as a race with intermediate plumage characters was
discovered in Zaire (Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire 1980).
On the other hand, where songs are found to differ, care needs to
be taken to distinguish dialectal variants - which can be clinal
over a large area. In the two species examined here, patterns of
vocal variation appear to be of taxonomic relevance in one
(Chestnut-headed Apalis A. chapini), but not in the other (Black-
headed Apalis A. melanocephala) where they are probably clinal.
This paper describes the voice of these warblers from the material
available so far, and stresses the need for further research and
tape recordings, particularly from south-central Tanzania.
TAPE RECORDINGS AND ANALYSIS
My tape recordings in Malawi were obtained with a Sony TC-150
cassette recorder, modified by Mineroff Electronics Inc. (e.g. with
increased sensitivity to high frequencies), and a Beyer M69 dynamic
microphone fitted into a Sony parabolic reflector. R. Stjernstedt
recorded in Tanzania with a Uher 4000-L and sent me copies on Uher
tape or cassette (which made no difference for the spectrographic
analysis). T. Harris's material from eastern Zimbabwe was a copy-
cassette. I have also used recordings published by G.S. Keith (in
Keith & Gunn 1971).
All material was analysed with a Kay Electric Sonagraph 7029A at
Liege University, using the wide-band setting.
RESULTS
The voice and status of the Chestnut-headed Apalis A. chapini
(including strausae) .
Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire (1980) separated the races chapini and
strausae of the Chestnut-throated Apalis A. porphyrolaema as a
species, A. chapini, distinct in its voice as well as facial
colouration from nominate porphyrolaema. The distribution of these
three forms in East Africa is given by Britton (1980); strausae is
Scopus 10: 92-98, December 1986
Vocal variations in two forest apalises
the most southerly and extends from SW Tanzania to the highlands of
northern and central Malawi and adjacent NE Zambia. The races
strausae and chapini are much closer to each other morphologically
than to porphyrolaema (both having a rufous face, whereas it is grey
in the latter); they were also allied on voice, as R. Stjernstedt
(in litt) considered the song of chapini from the Uluguru Mountains
to be identical to that of strausae from Rungwe. I have recently
analysed a tape from the Ulugurus which shows that there are in fact
some differences in voice; on the other hand, more material from SW
Tanzania and Malawi demonstrates a consistency of pattern in the
songs of strausae, with some dialectal variations.
Jkt Ak M i i 4 i i
|
| a
Frequency (kHz)
1s
Fig. 1. Sonagrams illustrating the songs of: (A) Apalis c. chapini
(Ulugurus, Tanzania, R. Stjernstedt); (B) and (C) Apalis chapini
strausae (both from Rungwe Distr., R. Stjernstedt)
The typical song of male A. chapini strausae is a monotonous tje-tje,
tje-tje... consisting of two descending strokes (or double strokes)
repeated at regular intervals for, usually 1-3s (Figs. 1B-C and 2A,
C-F). Females join in with a few weak, high-pitched pee-pee towards
the beginning of a male phrase (notes of females are shown in Fig.
2B). Songs have been heard in all months of the year in Malawi, but
are more frequent in August-January. Study of territorial birds on
the Nyika showed that individual males had at least two song-types:
94 Vocal variations in two forest apalises
one with two single strokes repeated as a unit (e.g. Fig. 2A, C and
E), the other - which sounded faster-delivered - consisting of
strokes doubled in a 'W' and repeated in units of twos (Fig. 2D and
F). The two song-types illustrated in Fig. 2E and D come from the
same individual bird.
Frequency (kHz)
Fig. 2. Sonagrams illustrating the songs of Apalis chapini strausae
from localities in Malawi: (A) and (B) Wilindi and Mugesse Forests,
Misuku Hills; (C) to (E) Nyika Plateau; (F) South Viphya Plateau.
All show male songs, except (B) where the part of the sexes is
illustrated by m (male) and f (female)
Except for an unusual variant in the Misuku Hills (in the extreme
north of Malawi), this pattern of single or double descending
strokes was found throughout the range of strausae. Thus one song-
type from Rungwe Mt (Fig. 1C) is close to one from the Nyika (Fig.
2C), and the other (Fig. 1B) approaches one from the intervening
Wilindi Forest, Misuku Hills (Fig. 2A). Curiously, one population
confined to Mugesse Forest (8km from Wilindi Forest in the Misukus)
was never heard to produce the typical song, but only a repetition
of a descending note broken into two elements, which sounded like
Eje=u,seje=ais... she: 2B).
R. Stjernstedt recorded two song-types of nominate chapini in the
Ulugurus, one of which is shown in Fig. IA: this sounds like a rapid,
high-pitched kif-kif-kif-kif-kif... and cannot be matched by any
song-type of strausae. However, there are similarities in structure,
as each stroke is prolonged by a 'W' that recalls the notes in Fig.
2D. But the 'W' is restricted to very high frequencies in the
Uluguru bird, hence the special timbre. Another song (not
Vocal variations in two forest apalises 95
reproduced here as much echo obliterates the details of structure)
appears lower-pitched (puipuipuipuipui...) with a main element at
4 kHz flanked with ascending and descending strokes.
Frequency (kHz)
1s
Fig. 3. Sonagrams illustrating the songs of Apalis melanocephala
from: (A) Sokoke, Kenya (G.S. Keith in Keith & Gunn 1971); (B) and
(C) Amani, Tanzania (R. Stjernstedt)
The voice of the Black-headed Apalis A. melanocephala
The song of the nominate melanocephala from coastal Kenya (in Keith
& Gunn 1971) is a monotonous repetition of loud wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu
(Fig. 3A: a faint harmonic overtone appears in the sonagrams and may
not be real). The bird answering with the same song in the background
may be the mate, or just as likely a countersinging territorial
neighbour. According to S.N. Stuart (in litt), the birds from the
Pugu Hills and the Usambara Mts (where two races are involved,
nominate and moschi) sound similar. Tapes provided by R. Stjernstedt
from Amani, East Usambaras, confirm this (Fig. 3B, C); but sometimes
the monotony of the repetitive phrase is broken up by one or two
introductory notes on a different pitch. One such song is illustra-
ted in Fig. 3C and can be rendered as ti-hue, wie-wie-wie-wie.
Moreover, the main notes differ slightly in structure, being broken
up into two elements.
In southern Malawi, A. melanocephala is common in the understorey
and canopy of a wide range of evergreen forest, from lowland at
96 Vocal variations in two forest apalises
600-700m to submontane forest up to 1800-1900m. White (1962)
supported the recognition of two races (lightoni and fuliginosa) on
neighbouring hills in this area, and Benson & Benson (1977)
similarly accept two (adjacens and fuliginosa), although geographical
considerations might suggest there is unlikely to be more than one.
Frequency (kHz)
Fig. 4. Sonagrams illustrating the songs of Apalis melanocephala
from: (A) and (B) Mulanje and Mangochi Mts, Malawi; (C) eastern
Zimbabwe (T. Harris)
The birds are noisy all year round with full songs commonest in
August-November. Stereotyped songs were heard only in isolated
individuals and there was no indication of a female participation.
The most frequent motifs consist of three clear, piping notes
repeated in series of a few seconds without a break. An example
from Mulanje Mt is shown in Fig. 4A (ti-ti-pu, ti-ti-pu...) and
another song-type from Mangochi Mt in Fig. 4B (pi-ti-ti, pi-ti-ti...)
with the accent on the first note. Motifs of four notes were also
heard (rarely) but not recorded; and I twice heard a song based on
the repetition of a single piping note (once on Zomba Mt, once on
Mulanje). Malawi birds were strongly attracted to the playback of
tapes of local songs (often both members of a pair, or a small
party came towards the recorder, calling and hopping about) but
never showed an interest in the repetitive song from coastal Kenya
Vocal variations in two forest apalises 97
(tried on Thyolo and Soche Mts). The calls are varied and include
series of piping pee-pee-pee-pee or soft trills (often preceding a
bout of singing), a rolled prru and alarm notes puit. These
vocalizations are uttered by two or more birds in a territory, i.e.
presumably by both sexes.
From Mwanihana Forest in the Uzungwa Mts of Tanzania, S.N. Stuart
(in litt) described the song as quite different and more variable
than the monotonous wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu series uttered by coastal
birds: songs were either di- or trisyllabic, some markedly
accentuated on the first note. These seem likely to approach the
song-types from Malawi.
The southernmost population of A. melanocephala occurs in lowland
forest in Mozambique and eastern Zimbabwe, south of the Zambezi
River. On morphological characters these birds (lightoni) have
been allied to those of southern Malawi except from Thyolo and
-Mulanje (White 1962). The song has recently been recorded in
Zimbabwe by T. Harris and is a striking, loud repetition of
metallic piupiupiupiu notes (Fig. 4C). This rather unmusical timbre,
produced by the high frequency range of each note, was never heard
in Malawi. On the other hand, the monotonous repetitions recall
the song-types of the nominate race in coastal East Africa;
moreover, the peaked notes can be seen as extensions into higher
frequencies (4-7 kHz) of the equivalent notes in Fig. 3A-C.
(Incidentally, the sonagram published by Maclean (1985) is taken
from the Sokoke tape of G.S. Keith and not from southern African
birds.)
DISCUSSION
In the A. porphyrolaema superspecies, marked vocal differences
appear to match morphological variations (at species or subspecies
level). The more extensive material obtained in recent years
confirms that the voice of A. chapini (including strausae) has
nothing in common with the loud, ringing trills of A. porphyrolaema
(recordings from the Kenya highlands are illustrated in Dowsett &
Dowsett-Lemaire 1980, p.173). However, more material is needed
particularly from the Uzungwa Mts in Tanzania (at the western limit
of nominate chapini), to compare the song repertoires of strausae
and chapini sensu strictu. Given the amount of intra- and inter-
population variation found in strausae songs. and some similarities
of structure with the chapini songs recorded so far, I would for the
moment keep them in the same species. Similar investigation of
vocalizations will be needed before the contentious status of
A. kaboboensis (sometimes allied to porphyrolaema) can be settled
(Collar & Stuart 1985).
Playback experiments are often useful in this sort of study, but
must be tried with caution in this group. Although I found that
A. porphyrolaema in Kenya reacted strongly to playback of local
tapes - by moving towards the source of sound and answering back -
Similar experiments rarely worked in Malawi with strausae. Indeed,
98 Vocal variations in two forest apalises
the situation is further complicated by the fact that Chestnut—-headed
Apalises interact aggressively and vocally with sympatric Bar-
throated Apalises A. thoracica and A. cinerea, whose voices are
very different (Dowsett-Lemaire 1983: 362-3, 371).
In A. melanocephala, tape-recorded material from coastal Kenya,
eastern Tanzania, southern Malawi and eastern Zimbabwe show a
remarkable range of vocalizations, with geographical variations
which do not fit the subspecific divisions of White (1962). Rather,
this material, added to S.N. Stuart's description of the complex
songs of the Uzungwa birds from central Tanzania, suggests there is
a clinal increase in song complexity from coastal to inland popula-
tions. More recordings from most of Tanzania are needed to confirm
(ElNILS c
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My research on forest birds in Malawi was supported financially by
a grant from the Belgian National” Fund (F2NoR Ss.) anelo7 9-5
lectureship from Liége University in 1981-83, and the National
Geographic Society, for which I am grateful. 1 thank Prot. J-6
Ruwet for the use of Sonagraph facilities at the Laboratory of
Ethology, University of Liége. R. Stjernstedt and T. Harris
kindly provided copies of their tape recordings for analysis.
REFERENCES
BENSON, C.W. & BENSON, F.M. 1977. The Birds of Malawi. Limbe:
Montfort Press.
CHAPPUIS, C. 1980. Study and analysis of certain vocalizations
as an aid in classifying African Sylviidae. Proceedings of
the Fourth Pan-African Ornithological Congress: 5/-63.
COLLAR, N.J. & STUART, S.N. 1985. Threatened birds of Africa and
related islands. Cambridge: ICBP and IUCN.
DOWSETT, R.J. & DOWSETT-LEMAIRE, F. 1980. The systematic status of
some Zambian birds. Le Gerfaut 70: 151-199.
DOWSETT-LEMAIRE, F. 1983. Ecological and territorial requirements
of montane forest birds on the Nyika Plateau, south-central
Africa. Le Gerfaut 73: 345-378.
KEITH, G.S.°& GUNN, W.W.H. 1971. Birds of the African) rain phomesince
Two discs with text. Ontario and New York: Federation of Ontario
Naturalists and American Museum of Natural History.
MACLEAN, G.L. 1985. Roberts' birds of southern Africa. Cape Town:
J. Voelcker Bird Book Fund.
WHITE, C.M.N. 1962. A check list of the Ethiopian Muscicapidae
(Sylviinae) Part II. Occasional Papers of the National Museum of
Southern Rhodesia No. 26B: 653-738.
Frangoise Dowsett-Lemaire, Rue de Bois-de-Breux 194, B-4500 Jupille,
Liége, Belgium (Received 29 September 1986)
99
A NEW BIRD FOR EAST AFRICA AND EXTENSIONS OF
RANGE OF SOME SPECIES FOR SOUTHWEST TANZANIA
DC eMOuUeT wand OR... Stjernsted
These records are from a visit to the Tatanda one-degree square
(8-9 S, 31-32 E) in southwestern Tanzania made between 15 April and
1 May 1985. During this time trips were made to Mumba, Kitungulu,
Nkutwe and Nsangu from our base at Tatanda. This area of Tanzania
has been poorly covered by ornithologists in the past and in recent
years a number of species new to East Africa and extensions of range
have been recorded here (see Stjernstedt & Moyer 1982). DCM
visited Mumba from 15-18 April and both of us visited Kitungulu
from 25-28 April, Nkutwe on 29 April and Nsangu from 30 April to
1 May. Mumba is located about 40km southeast of Sumbawanga on the
road to Tunduma, the habitat there is montane grassland and the
elevation is about 2100m. Kitungulu lies at an elevation of about
1400m and is located 25km west of Tatanda. This locality was
visited by Fromm in 1909 and by Loveridge in 1930 (see Kothe 1911
and Bangs & Loveridge 1933). Near where the village of Kitungulu
once stood, two streams, the Kitungulu and the Kamukolwe, join to
form the Kawa. Lining the banks of these streams is riverine
forest of a type commonly encountered in Zambia where it is known
as mushitu. At one point the forest widens out to about 100m to
form a small patch. We put up several mist-nets in this spot
during our stay. The area surrounding Kitungulu is miombo woodland
in very good condition. Nkutwe is a small patch of mushitu growing
around a hot spring. It is located 2km east of Tatanda and has an
elevation of about 1500m. About 15km north of Mumba on the lip
of the Rukwa escarpment is a small patch of montane forest called
Nsangu, which lies at about 2200m. This forest is being cut down
by the people from the nearby village of Msanda for lumber, char-
coal and firewood which they sell in Sumbawanga. Nsangu is similar
to Mbisi forest which is located 20km to the northwest and many of
the same bird species are found here. Also worthy of note is a
troop of Western Red Colobus Colobus badius tephrosceles living in
the forest. This subspecies is in increasing danger on the Ufipa
Plateau as the remaining patches of forest are cut down (see
Rodgers 1981).
Mist-nets were put up in all of the localities visited during our
stay and data were kept from all birds examined. We collected one
species new to East Africa (e); we identified a second new species,
and probably also a third, on the basis of voice and these are
marked 'o' in the list below.
Caprimulgus poliocephalus guttifer Montane Nightjar
This species was heard and tape recorded on the grassland surrounding
Nsangu Forest. It was quite common and up to four birds were heard
calling at one time. These records are a considerable westward
extension of the range of this species as given in Britton (1980).
Scopus 10: 99-102, December 1986
100 A new bird for East Africa
© Mirafra angolensis Angola Lark
DCM saw and heard a lark, probably of this species, on two occasions
at Mumba. Both times a bird was seen at a distance of about 150m
performing a distinctive song-flight. All efforts to locate the
bird after it had settled into the tall grass failed and a good view
was not obtained. The song-flight began with a short, steep flight
to a height of about 20m then, with wings held overhead, the bird
glided back to the ground, all the while giving a continuous liquid
buzzing call. This call was very similar to the description by
Aspinwall (1979) of the call of M. angolensis in the northwestern
province of Zambia. It also sounded almost exactly like a recording
made by RS of this species in western Zambia. The inclusion of this
Species in the East African avifauna must await full substantiation.
Alcippe abyssinica abyssinica African Hill Babbler
One bird was caught at Nsangu and it was heard calling quite paren
in the forest undergrowth.
Andropadus latirostris australis Yellow-whiskered Greenbul
A common and noisy bird at Nsangu where two were caught.
Andropadus virens zombensis Little Greenbul
This was a very common species at Kitungulu in the mushitu, eleven
being caught; it was not found at Nkutwe. Britton (1980) records
this species from no closer than Tukuyu; it is, however, quite
common in mushitu around Mbala in northern Zambia.
Chlorocichla flavicollis flavigula Yellow-throated Leaflove
Two birds were caught at Kitungulu where it did not appear to be
very common.
Phyllastrephus cabanisi Cabanis' Greenbul
A common species at Kitungulu and Nkutwe. Nine were caught at
Kitungulu.
Phyllastrephus flavostriatus alfredi Yellow-streaked Greenbul
This species is common at Nsangu where three were caught.
Cercotrichas barbata barbata Bearded Scrub Robin
Heard on several occasions in rich miombo near Kitungulu. This
species was found by Moreau's collector near this area (Moreau 1943).
Alethe poliocephala ufipae Brown-chested Alethe
Three birds were caught at Nsangu, in each case they were the sole
bird in the net on the first visit at early dawn. The birds were
silent in the hand but snapped their bills. The gape was pinkish
grey, bill black, eyes chestnut-brown and feet pale pink.
Dryocichloides bocagei chapini Bocage's Ground Robin
This species was heard calling several times at Kitungulu and a
female was collected. This is the first specimen of this race from
Tanzania.
Pogonocichla stellata orientalis White-starred Forest Robin
A common bird at Nsangu, where one was caught.
A new bird for East Africa 101
Apalis alticola Brown-headed Apalis
Recorded from Nsangu, Kitungulu and Nkutwe. Britton (1980) gives its
habitat as highland forest but at Kitungulu and Nkutwe it occurs in
mushitu.
Bradypterus barratti ufipae Evergreen Forest Warbler
Common at Kitungulu and Nkutwe in mushitu and in montane forest at
Nsangu.
Cisticola fulvicapilla angusticauda Tabora Cisticola
This species was seen in tall miombo at Kitungulu. The closest it
had previously been recorded was from Katavi Plain.
0 Cisticola pipiens congo Chirping Cisticola
This species was heard calling in the reeds along the Mumba River by
DCM who is familiar with it from Mbala, 70km to the south in Zambia.
One bird was caught but escaped before being measured and photo-
graphed. The addition of this species to the East African list must
- await full substantiation.
e Phylloscopus laurae eustacei Laura's Warbler
A male of this species was caught in the forest at Kitungulu and a
specimen was made. The occurrence of P. laurae here is not
surprising as it is quite common near Mbala, 70km to the southeast,
in similar habitat.
Muscicapa adusta fuelleborni Dusky Flycatcher
A very common bird at Nsangu in forest clearings where three were
caught.
Macronyx ameliae altanus Rosy-breasted Longclaw
Two birds were seen at Mumba on montane grassland and one at Lake
Sundu on a wet dambo. Britton (1980) records this species from no
nearer than the Malawi border some 150-200km southeast of Mumba;
however, its occurrence here was predicted.
Malaconotus multicolor nigrifrons Many-coloured Bush Shrike
This species was seen once and heard calling at Nsangu. A recording
was made of its call.
Anomalospiza imberbis Parasitic Weaver
One was seen at Tatanda by RS, this is only the second record from
this area. Britton (1980) records it from no closer than Iringa.
Mandingoa nitidula chubbi Green-backed Twinspot
One bird, a male, was caught on the forest edge at Kitungulu.
Serinus mennelli Black-eared Seed-eater
A very common bird in miombo woodland around Kitungulu and elsewhere
in the square. Britton (1980) records it from no nearer than Songea
so these records represent a considerable extension of known range.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are grateful to Dr Simon Stuart for commenting on a first draft of
this note.
102 A new bird for East Africa
REFERENCES
ASPINWALL, D.R. 1979. Bird notes from the Zambesi District, North-
western Province. Occasional Papers of the Zambian Ornithological
Society No. 2.
BANGS, O. & LOVERIDGE, A. 1973. Reports on the scientific results
of an expedition to the southwestern highlands of Tanganyika
Territory. Part 3. Birds. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative
Zoology, Harvard 75(/): 143-221.
KOTHE, K. 1911. Zoologische Ergebnisse der Expedition des Herrn
Hauptmann a. D. Fromm 1908/09 nach Deutsch-Ostafrika. 2. Aves.
Mitteilungen aus dem Zoologischen Museum in Berlin 5: 311-382.
MOREAU, R.E. 1943. A contribution to the ornithology of the east
side of Lake Tanganyika. Ibis 85: 377-412.
RODGERS, W.A. 1981. The distribution and conservation status of
colobus monkeys in Tanzania. Primates 22(1): 33-45.
STJERNSTEDT, R. & MOYER, D.C. 1982. Some new birds and extensions
of range for southwest Tanzania. Scopus 6: 36-37.
GAZETTEER
Katavi Plain 06.45 S 31.05 E Msanda 0804 SS» Sie Siigr
Kitungulu 08529"S SIs Ey Mumba 08.06 S~ 3125095
Sundu, Lake 08.30 S 31.40 E Nkutwe 08°29 -S=e3 13s
Mbala 08.50 S 31.42 E Nsangu 08.03 S35 315388
Mbisi 07.54 S 31.42 E Sumbawanga 07-58 S)saie37ee
Tatanda 529 8 SUSSO 13
D.C. Moyer, 325 East Walnut Street, Perkasie, PA 18944, U.S.A. and
R. Stjernstedt, Box 36673, Lusaka, Zambia
(Received 10 January 1986)
103
MOULT SCHEDULES OF SOME PYCNONOTIDS AND PLOCEIDS
IN COASTAL KENYA
Pai IB bie EON sana) oH. A. BriEton
There are few published accounts of moult schedules of Afrotropical
birds in East Africa, though the stage of moult of many thousands
has been noted as a routine feature of ringing studies (Backhurst
1974). Moult data are included by Okia (1976) and Stuart & Hutton
(1977), for forest birds in Uganda and Tanzania, and many more are
available from various sites in Kenya. Few have been published
(Britton 1972, 1978), but anticipated papers will include data from
several forests (A.W. Diamond, R.J. Dowsett, M. Kelsey and C.F. Mann
in prep.). Both pycnonotids in this paper featured prominently in a
recent study in Mozambique and Malawi (Hanmer 1978), while Okia
(1976) included data on other pycnonotids. Published data from
Kenya include the Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus (Britton 1972)
and various ploceids (Britton 1978). Data from higher latitudes
are often very synchronized (Hanmer 1978), while those for papyrus
birds on the equator in western Kenya (Britton 1978) exhibit clear
patterns. Britton (1972) concluded that the timing and duration of
moult of the Common Bulbul conform to no obvious pattern in
western Kenya, nor do available data for other pycnonotids from
the same climatic zone in Uganda (Okia 1976). The data presented
here lack obvious patterns, and a substantial analysis of
seasonality, interrupted moult or other features is inappropriate.
Interested readers are referred to the extensive bibliography and
discussion in Britton (1978).
During 1974-78, whilst resident in Mombasa, we netted birds
regularly in modified and degraded thicket on coral rag at Bamburi
(4.00 S, 39.43 E). Introduced Lantana camara was dominant except
in natural glades where grasses and palms featured prominently.
Nets were usually set for 3 or 4 hours from dawn, using the same
Sites on each visit. The primary moult of each bird handled was
recorded using the methods of Evans (1966). Birds with active or
interrupted moult were given a score from 1 to 49. All such data
for the Common Bulbul, Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul Andropadus
importunus, Golden Palm Weaver Ploceus bojeri, Spectacled Weaver P.
ocularis, Black-necked Weaver P. nigricollis and Zanzibar Red
Bishop Euplectes nigroventris are summarized in Figs. 1-3. Data for
other species netted involve still smaller samples and are excluded.
Recaptured birds in moult on one or more occasions have moult scores
joined in the figures. Birds exhibiting active moult only once, or
with interrupted moult each time, are shown with broken lines. The
gradient of these is likely to be artificially low, though several
such lines are at least as steep as many continuous lines. This,
together with the lengthy (mean 326 days) duration of primary moult
derived from all thirty recaptures, suggests that many in active
moult had in fact interrupted their moult for part of the period
between captures. Most pycnonotid data from Africa indicate that
active primary moult lasts for 3-5 months and follows breeding
(Hanmer 1978).
Scopus 10: 103-106, December 1986
104 Moult of some Kenya coastal birds
Seasonality is very apparent in coastal Kenya, with most rain
during April-June, sometimes protracted into July, August or
November (Brown & Britton 1979). Rainfall is rather erratic and
variable, and such differences from year to year are likely to
obscure patterns when data from five years are combined (see Britton
1978). Breeding season data from coastal Kenya for these six species
in Brown & Britton (1979) show that most laying is during and
immediately after the wet April-June period, with 97 per cent of
clutches in April-October. Ignoring atypical August data for the
Zanzibar Red Bishop, there is a peak in May (27 per cent of clutches).
The purpose of this paper is to place these data on record for
future analysis or comparison by other workers. In particular, a
forthcoming review of moult patterns in forest birds by R.J. Dowsett
will include miscellaneous data from forests in coastal Kenya (M.
Kelsey in litt.).
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Fig. 1. Primary moult scores of Andropadus importunus by months.
Birds exhibiting interrupted moult (-) and birds aged as immature
(1) are distinguished. Joined lines link recaptured birds (see text)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We are very grateful to Bamburi Cement Company and their farm manager,
René Haller, for permission to net birds on their land.
Moult of some Kenya coastal birds 105
Primary moult score
Fig. 2. Primary moult scores of Pycnonotus barbatus by months.
Conventions as in Fig. l
50 2
(]
Q e A <
&
40 A ‘
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Fig. 3. Primary moult scores of Ploceus bojeri @, P.ocularisoO ,
P. nigricolliso and Euplectes nigriventris A. Conventions as in Fig l
106 Moult of some Kenya coastal birds
REFERENCES
BACKHURST, G.C. 1974. East African bird ringing report 1972-73,
1973-74. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 146: 1-9.
BRITTON, P.L. 1972. Weights of African bulbuls (Pycnonotidae)
Ostrich) 4920 23-42.
1978. Seasonality, density and diversity of birds of
a papyrus swamp in western Kenya. TIbis 120: 450-466.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1979. The breeding seasons of East
African birds. Nairobi: East Africa Natural History Society.
EVANS, P.R. 1966. Autumn movements, moult and measurements of the
Lesser Redpoll Carduelis flammea cabaret. Ibis 108: 183-216.
HANMER, D. 1978. Measurements and moult of five species of bulbul
from Mocambique and Malawi. Ostrich 49: 116-131.
OKIA, N.O. 1976. Birds of the understorey of lake-shore forests on
Entebbe peninsula, Uganda. Ibis 118: 1-13.
STUART, S.N. & HUTTON, J.M. (eds) 1977. The avifauna of the East
Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. Cambridge, cyclostyled.
P.L. & H.A. Britton, All Souls' School, Charters Towers, O 4820,
Australia
(Received 14 June 1986)
Short communications 107
SHORT COMMUNICATIONS
A LEVANT SPARROWHAWK SPECIMEN FROM UGANDA
Whilst examining Accipiter skins at the British Museum (Natural
History) at Tring, England, I recently came across an example of
a Levant Sparrowhawk A. brevipes among East African specimens of
Shikra A. badius sphenurus. The bird was collected by C.R.S. Pitman
near the Aswa (Achwa) River, east of Paranga, Lango, Uganda on
18 March 1929. It is an adult male, showing dark slaty upperparts
and chestnut barring below (adult A.b. sphenurus are paler grey
above with paler pinkish-brown barring below). The wing measures
218mm and the tail 155mm. The second primary is only 1mm shorter
than the fifth, and the latter 14mm shorter than the third and
fourth, these being about equal. The inscription on the collector's
label includes the following comment: "Evidently on passage to
morth. Exceedingly fat. One of several skulking in trees by water
‘holes. Feeding on flying termites". The specimen was also
examined by P.R. Colston and M.W. Woodcock who agreed with the
identification.
There are very few reports of the Levant Sparrowhawk from the
Afrotropical region, and only two previous records from East Africa,
a bird collected at Busenga, NW Tanzania on |! December 1921
(Morrison 1955) and one seen in Meru NP, Kenya on 8 November 1983
(EANHS O S-C 1984). The Tring specimen thus provides an addition
to the Uganda list.
REFERENCES
E.A.N.H.S. 0.S-C 1984. East African Bird Report 1983. Scopus 7: 124.
MORRISON, A.F. 1955. Occurrence of the Levant Sparrowhawk in
Tanganyika. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 75: 6.
D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi,
Box 30197, Nairobi (Received 19 September 1986)
Scopus 10: 107, December 1986.
SOUTHERN TANA RIVER OBSERVATIONS
Between 28-31 December 1985 I had occasion to visit a relatively
unknown sector of Kenya. Through the good organization of Rinaldo
and Jill Retief, combined with Terry O'Meara's expertise, a group
of us were able to explore the southern Tana River delta area some
25km south of Kipini at Sherekiko.
This short note is written to record two unusual sightings of
birds among the 79 species noted during the four days. The trip
started upstream at Semikaro by boat, taking some 2} hours to
negotiate the 40km odd to the river's southern mouth. The first
12-15km took us through riverine cultivation, mainly mango trees
and bananas, before entering generally uninhabited country. The
slow flowing, winding river then progresses bordered by seasonally
108 Short communications
high grasses, various palms and some woodland, before emerging into
mixed mangrove tidal vegetation. At this time of year mudbanks,
exposed by the tide, are frequented by many Palaearctic waders
besides large numbers of herons, storks, ibis, stone curlews,
plovers and various water fowl. The boat trip on the lower reaches
is enhanced by frequent sightings of crocodiles and the occasional
hippo.
The two observations of particular interest were of the following
species:
Ixobrychus sturmii Dwarf Bittern
I made 12-15 sightings, all of only single birds, flushed from
dense riverine vegetation by the motor-powered boat.
Pluvialis dominica Lesser Golden Plover
On 29 December seven birds of this species were observed at ranges
up to 40m with 10 x 40 binoculars. The birds were situated on the
sea shore exposed by the receding tide north of the estuary. On
31 December a flock of 57 Lesser Golden Plovers were observed in
the same general area at ranges up to 30m using identical binocu-
lars. Identification was established by the more slender, longer-
legged appearance than Grey Plovers P. squatarola which were also
present. Combined with a pale eye-stripe, mottled deep golden brown
and black upperparts and pale grey-brown axillaries and underwing,
this bird cannot be confused with any other species. Of interest
is the apparent habit of 'freezing' in any stance when under close
pre-flight observation, thus enabling me to accurately count 5/7
birds within 35m range.
A.L. Archer, Wildlife Services Ltd., Box 30678, Nairobi.
Scopus 10: 107-108, December 1986 Received 20 January 1986
THE COMPOSITION OF BWINDI FOREST BIRD PARTIES
Bird parties or mixed-species flocks are a conspicuous feature of
tropical woodland and forest. They consist of a mobile feeding
association of a number of different species, usually insectivorous
(see Winterbottom 1943, Vernon 1980, Pomeroy & Tengecho 1982 and
references therein).
Between 21 August and 12 September 1984 I recorded the composition
of 18 mixed-species flocks in the Bwindi (formerly Impenetrable)
Forest, southwest Uganda. Flocks were seen in hillside and valley
forest at altitudes between 2130m and 2440m. In all, 4/7 species
joined flocks, the vast majority being entirely or predominantly
insectivorous. Birds feeding mainly on fruit or seeds (e.g. the
Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus, Slender-billed Greenbul
Andropadus gracilirostris, Thick-billed and Streaky Seed-eaters
Serinus_burtoni and S. striolatus) occurred in a few parties. The
number of species per party ranged from 3 to 12, with a mean of 6.9.
Short communications 109
Most parties moved mainly through the canopy, but three were
confined to the undergrowth.
Three ‘nuclear species' (as in Winterbottom 1943, Start 1971) were
clearly identifiable: they were the White-headed Wood Hoopoe
Phoeniculus bollei, Chestnut-throated Apalis Apalis porphyrolaema
and Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis, all noisy species
occurring in small to medium sized groups. At least one nuclear
species was present in 14 out of 15 canopy parties; in 9 cases
there were two nuclear species but no party had all three. The
three undergrowth parties seemed to lack nuclear species.
Other species regularly joining parties (recorded in five or
more) included the Stripe-breasted Tit Parus fasciiventer, African
Hill Babbler Alcippe abyssinica, Yellow-streaked Greenbul Phylla-
strephus flavostriatus, Masked Apalis Apalis binotata, Rwenzori
Batis Batis diops and Strange Weaver Ploceus alienus.
DISCUSSION
In Table | Bwindi bird parties are compared with some of those
studied elsewhere in Africa. The number of species joining is
well within the range represented, being close to the mean of 49
species for the other nine localities. The maximum and mean number
of species per party cannot be calculated for some studies, but the
values for Bwindi are slightly lower than those others which are
obtainable. (The latter measure will in any case be affected by
differing criteria for the minimum number of species constituting
a party.)
The identity of the nuclear species varies interestingly. Z.
senegalensis is a nuclear species in Zambian woodland (Winterbottom
1943) as well as in Bwindi, but not elsewhere, although it joins
bird parties in a number of places. The other studies show no
equivalents to P. bollei and A. porphyrolaema in Bwindi. Two drongo
Dicrurus species are essential to the formation of bird parties in
the east Usambaras (Stuart & Hutton 1977), but although D. adsimilis
joins parties in Bwindi and six of the other localities, it usually
does so briefly or rarely, and is nowhere else regarded as a
nuclear species. Greig-Smith (1978) and Start (1971) stress the
importance of tits Parus spp. as the sole nuclear species in their
studies, and the Southern Black Tit P. niger is one of the four
nuclear species recorded by Winterbottom (1943). However, while
both P. fasciiventer and the Dusky Tit P. funereus joined parties in
Bwindi, the former regularly, neither could be considered a nuclear
species, nor was the White-bellied Tit P. albiventris at Masalani
(Pomeroy & Tengecho 1982).
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
These observations were made during the Cambridge Bwindi Forest Study
Group's expedition to the forest in 1984. My thanks to all the
individuals and organizations who made this visit possible, and to
the Ugandan Forest Department and National Research Council for
permission to work in Bwindi.
Short communications
110
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Short communications eld
REFERENCES
BRITTON, P.L. & ZIMMERMAN, D.A. 1979. The avifauna of Sokoke Forest,
Kenya. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 169: 1-15.
GREIG-SMITH, P.W. 1978. The formation, structure and function of
mixed-species insectivorous bird flocks in West African savanna
woodland. fbis 120: 284-297.
POMEROY, D.E. & TENGECHO, B. 1982. Studies of birds in a semi-arid
area of Kenya II. Bird parties in two woodland areas. Scopus 6:
BE Se
START, A.N. 1971. A study of mixed species bird flocks in a highland
forest area in Kenya, East Africa. Unpubl. report, Dept. Zoology,
University of Aberdeen.
StLUARtsonN. & HUMEON, J.M. (eds) 1977. The avifauna of the East
Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. Cambridge: cyclostyled report.
VERNON, C.J. 1980. Bird parties in central and south Africa.
Proceedings of the Fourth Pan-African Ornithological Congress
UST Or S32 5\
WINTERBOTTOM, J.M. 1943. On woodland bird parties in Northern
Rhodesia. Ibis 85: 437-442.
L.A. Bennun, Box 21149, Nairobi Received 30 September 1986
Scopus 10: 108-111, December 1986
A TWENTY-YEAR-OLD GREENBUL FROM WESTERN KENYA
On 6 January 1985, in my former study area in the Kakamega Forest
(Zimmerman, Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 129,
1972), Dr Simon Cox mist-netted a female Cameroon Sombre Greenbul
Andropadus curvirostris which I had ringed there on 22 June 1965.
According to information kindly supplied by Dr Cox, this remarkable
bird was captured within 30 to 50m of the ringing site. She was a
a breeding adult when I first captured her in 1965, making her age
at least twenty years - one of the oldest recorded passerines and
apparently a record for any tropical species.
Longevity records of wild birds cited by Campbell & Lack (A
Dierianary OF Birds, Calton: Poyser, 1985, p./) include only three
passerines in the twenty-year range: a Blackbird Turdus merula,
20.3 years; a Starling Sturnus vulgaris, 20.0 years; and a Rook Corvus
frugilegus 19.9 years of age). The only pycnonotid cited by Campbell
& Lack is Pycnonotus plumosus, an individual of which was recorded as
11.7 years. These data represent 'maximum recorded elapsed time
between ringing and recovery."
FIZ Short communications
My thanks to Graeme Backhurst for notifying me of the Kakamega
bird's recapture, and to Dr Cox for providing confirmation and
various additional details.
Dale A. Zimmerman, 1011 W. Florence St, Silver City, New Mexico 88061
U.S.A.
Scopus 10: 111-112, December 1986 - Received 2 December 1986
[The above-mentioned record was included by C.F. Mann in his paper 'An
avifaunal study in Kakamega Forest, Kenya, with particular reference
to species diversity, weight and moult', Ostrich 56: 236-262, December
IGS elo)
THE YELLOW-STREAKED GREENBUL IN KENYA
Britton (1980) attributes Phyllastrephus flavostriatus tenuirostris
to Kenya solely on the basis of the specimen collected on Mt Kasigau,
southwest of Voi on 18 November 1938 (Rand, Fieldiana, Zoology 35,
1958: p.203). Overlooked in their account was the first Kenyan
Specimen secured by Blaney Percival at or near Fort Hall on 4 April
1917. This record was originally mentioned as "probably tenuirostris"
by Meyer de Schauensee in a paper on Northern Rhodesian birds
(Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia 103,
1951: p.48). It was also referred to by Rand (loc. cit.). Perhaps
this early specimen was the basis for V.G.L. van Someren's statement ;
(Novitates Zoologicae 29, 1922: p.185), ''According to Oberholser,
this species ranges into British East Africa."
I recently had opportunity to examine this specimen (ANSP 95955)
in the collection of the Academy of Natural Sciences. It is an
unsexed adult. There are no data relative to habitat or precise
locality where it was collected; the label merely reads "Fort Hall".
Turner & Zimmerman (Scopus 3, 1979: 41), also unaware of this
specimen, reported that the species' current status in Kenya was
unknown, and that there were no recent records. This remains true.
Two early records of this species, one as far north as Murang'a,
suggest that this bird probably has been overlooked in subsequent
years. However, the extensive deforestation in recent decades casts
some doubt on its continued existence in this country. Observers in
montane forest should be on the alert for it.
Dale A. Zimmerman, Department of Biological Science, Western New
Mexico University, Silver City, New Mexico 88061, U.S.A.
Scopus 10: 112, December 1986 Received 2 December 1986
Short communications 113
A NEST RECORD FOR PHYLLOSCOPUS LAETUS
THE RED-FACED WOODLAND WARBLER
Phylloscopus laetus, endemic to the montane forests of the Albertine
Rift (Prigogine 1985), is a common bird where it occurs, but little
known. Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1973) found only one record of its
nest, which they describe as a domed structure of moss and dry leaves
placed a few feet from the ground between two branches, with a side
entrance about a third of the length from the top. Lippens & Wille
(1976) give a nearly identical description, and record breeding in
Kivu, East Zaire, between January and August, i.e. in the last part
of the rains and in the dry season. (It is not clear whether these
dates derive from observation or from examination of the gonadal
condition of the specimens.) The species seems to have entirely
escaped the attention of Brown & Britton (1980).
On 4 September 1984 in the Bwindi (formerly Impenetrable) Forest,
SW Uganda, I watched a single P. laetus nest-building very actively
in valley forest at 2100m. The nest site was quite different from
that described by Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1973). About 10m up in
a large, straight-boled tree a nearly vertical branch emerged. From
it projected horizontally a dark mass of tangled epiphyte roots,
moss-—covered, approximately 50cm high and 20cm across. In the
very centre of this mass was a small round hole into which the bird
regularly disappeared with nesting material, emerging after a short
time. The bundles of material it carried were often almost as
large as itself; they appeared to consist of lichen mixed with
other debris, probably scraps of dead leaves.
In 1984 the rainy season in Bwindi had begun in the last week of
August after an unusually severe dry period; this record is thus
for the early rains. Although nest-building does not necessarily
imply breeding activity, the two are likely to be connected in a
phylloscopine warbler, indicating that the species may breed at
a different season in Bwindi than in Kivu.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This observation was made during the Cambridge Bwindi Forest Study
Group's expedition to the forest in 1984. I thank all those
individuals and organizations who made this visit possible, and
the Ugandan Forest Department and National Research Council for
permission to work in Bwindi.
REFERENCES
ETPPENS, L. & WILLE, H. 1976. Les oiseaux du Zaire. Tielt: Lannoo.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1973. African handbook of
birds. Series III. vol. 2. Birds of west central and western
Africa. London: Longman.
bya Short communications, Letter to the Editor
PRIGOGINE, A. 1985. Conservation of the avifauna of the forests of
the Albertine rift, pp! 277-295 in Diamond, A.W. & Lovejoy mane
(eds) Conservation of tropical forest birds. ICBP technical
publication No. 4. Cambridge: ICBP.
L.A. Bennun, Box 21149, Nairobi Received 30 September 1986
Scopus 10: 113-114, December 1986
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Siistay
Clancey's recent paper ‘Taxonomic notes on some birds from East
Africa’ (Scopus 10: 33-40) drew attention to some apparent lapses
and inconsistencies in the nomenclature which we followed in Birds
of East Africa (Britton 1980). None of the ten authors is a museum
specialist, and we appreciate that Clancey's appraisal is far more
proper and thorough than was our cursory review of relevant
literature. Nevertheless, subjective analysis is inevitable when
variation is examined at the subspecies level. Further debate is
perhaps unreasonable, but I think it necessary to identify six
species in his paper which were given correct treatment in terms
of the procedures outlined in the text itself.
Buccanodon whytii
White (1965, A revised check list of African non-passerine birds,
Lusaka: Government Printer) includes euroum in the synonymy of
nominate whytii, and we followed this opinion.
Pogoniulus chrysoconus
White (1965) includes dryas and rhodesiae in the synonymy of extoni,
and we followed this opinion.
Cercotrichas quadrivirgata
White (1962, A revised check list of African shrikes, etc. Lusaka:
Government Printer) includes rovumae and erlangeri in the synonymy
of the nominate form. Clancey argues that the pattern of variation
now determined presupposes that brunnea (which we referred to as
being described and perhaps valid) may be part of rovumae.
Clytospiza monteiri
Clancey resurrects ugandensis (van Someren 1921) though White (1963,
A revised check list of African flycatchers, etc. Lusaka: Government
Printer) regarded the species as monotypic, and we followed this
opinion.
Cryptospiza reichenovii
Clancey places ocularis in the synonymy of the nominate form. We
followed White (1963) who included ocularis in the synonymy of
australis.
Letter to the Editor, Notices LS
Plocepasser mahali
We referred to the discussion in Benson et al. (1970, Arnoldia
(Rhodesia) 4(40): 1-59) wkich resulted from a thorough appraisal of
relevant specimens. Clancey's conclusions might result from a more
detailed investigation using some more recent material, though the
late C.W. Benson examined all British Museum (Nat. Hist.) material
then available.
Peter L. Britton, All Souls' School, Charters Towers, 04820,
Australia
Scopus 10: 114-115, December 1986 Received 20 July 198€
NOTICES
SYMPOSIUM: BIRDS OF EVERGREEN FOREST. 8-10 September 1987 at the
Wilderness, Cape Province, South Africa.
Papers and posters on the following topics: forest bird communities,
biogeography of forest birds, population biology of forest birds,
conservation of forest avifaunas.
Prospective participants should contact the Symposium Organising
Pommm@eteen t.GeW.Beo., 2.0. Box 1305, Port Elizabeth 6000, S. Africa.
GABAR - A new journal covering African raptors
GABAR (Growth and Biology of African Raptors) is a new journal
publishing material on African raptors, here defined as eagles,
hawks, harriers, buzzards, falcons and owls, i.e. excluding vultures,
seabirds and other predatory birds already covered by specialist
publications in the region. Contents will include: short papers
on completed studies, progress reports on ongoing research, short
notes, unusual sightings, conservation problems and a Forum in
which opinions, continuing controversies, constructive criticisms
and new ideas are aired and challenged. The first edition has been
printed and copies can be obtained free of charge from the address
below. Subsequent editions will be distributed on receipt of a
subscription fee.
Robert Simmons, Editor - GABAR, Dept. of Zoology, University of
Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, Republic of South Africa.
116 Notices, Short Reviews
MALIMBUS 8(2) DECEMBER 1986
[The contents of the latest issue of our sister journal]
Editorial 49
Hilary Fry: A Tribute by John Elgood and Bob Sharland 49
Records of birds seen in the Republic of Togo during 1984-
[9860 Rea acheken be) Walch &ujseA a Sowal ai
The Red-capped Robin-chat Cossypha natalensis in West Africa.
S.N. Stuart & M.E. Gartshore 73
Observations of birds and other frugivores feeding at
Tetrorchidium didymostemon. R.E. Happel 77
Revised list of sound-recorded Afrotropical birds. C. Chappuis
(Continued from Malimbus 8(1): 25-39) 19
Notes on the birds of the Ivory Coast. J.F. Walsh 89
Review, Notices. 93-98
SCOPUS SUBSCRIPTIONS AND 1986 BIRD RECORDS
Subscriptions for 1987 are due. Full details are inside the front
cover of this issue. The fifth issue of Scopus volume 9, the East
African Bird Report 1985 is currently in preparation and records for
Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda for 1986 (as well as any outstanding rec-
ords for earlier years) should be sent in as soon as possible please.
Afrotropical records to D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi, Palaearctic
ones to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry, University of
Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi.
SHORT REVIEWS
Proceedings of the Birds and Man Symposium (Johannesburg 10-15 April
1983). Edited by L. John Bunning, Witwatersrand Bird Club, Johannes-
burg, December 1985. 361 pp., soft covers, US$32.00 including post-
age and packing.
An excellently produced document on the contributions given at this
important meeting. Most papers are on southern African topics but
there are some from the UK, USA and Australia as well. The book is
available from the WBC, Box 72091, Parkview 2122, Johannesburg.
Proceedings of the International Conference on the Quela: ecology,
management, policy (Kenya 13-23 January 1985). Edited by C.C.H. El-
liott and M.M. Jaeger. 132 pp., soft covers. Available from the
FAO Representative in Kenya, Box 30470, Nairobi.
A very useful summary of this conference which also touched on
other pest birds. Papers are presented in summary, followed by a
selection of questions and answers and comments. The whole text is
given first in English and then in French.
Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the form
used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case of books, the
town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of works, which are cited
frequently, should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s) of the author(s) and date(s)
of publication should be given in the text in the normal way.
All contributions, which will be acknowledged, should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi.
WORKS WHICH SHOULD NOT BE LISTED UNDER ‘REFERENCES’
BACKHURST,G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and
National Museum 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al, 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971. The birds of Zambia.
London: Collins, = Benson et al, 1971.
BRITTON, P.L.(ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa, their habitat, status and distribution. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds. Nairobi:
EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa. Vol. 1. London and
New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al, 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, F.J. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. 3 vols.
London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 & 1960. African handbook of birds.
Series I, Vols. 1 & 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa. 2nd edition. London:
Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957 and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands, London: Academic Press,
= Moreau 1966.
1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems, London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African Non-Passerine birds. London:
British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
EAST AFRICAN BIRD REPORT
This forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar year. Records of
Afrotropical Region and Oceanic birds should be sent ot D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
records of Palaearctic Region birds to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Biochemistry,
University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in early in the new year to
ensure the speedy production of the Bird Report. Reports of rare birds may be telephoned
through to any OS-C member (numbers inside front cover) in the hope that the bird(s)
may be seen by others.
Criteria covering the submission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement,
June 1982, copies of which are available from D.A. Turner.
CONTENTS
D.J. PEARSON and D.A. TURNER. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Uganda , .) « « e's 2 5 6 © © jo) See COE
L.A. BENNUN, C. GICHUKI, J. DARLINGTON and F. NG'WENO. The avi-
fauna of Ol Doinyo Orok, a forest island: initial findings . 83
L.A. BENNUN. Montane birds of the Bwindi (Impenetrable) Forest . 8/7
FRANCOISE DOWSETT-LEMAIRE. Vocal variations in two forest
apalises of eastern Africa, Apalis (porphyrolaema) chapini
and A. melanocephala .. « «= « 6 © «© «© «© «© “© © © 6) eit) MiensscReC ummm)
D.C. MOYER and R. STJERNSTEDT. A new bird for East Africa and
extensions of range of some species for southwest Tanzania . 99
P.L. BRITTON and H.A. BRITTON. Moult schedules of some pycnonotids
and ploceids. in ‘coastal Kenya . ... . «°. « .-. % eee
Short communications
D.J. PEARSON. A Levant Sparrowhawk specimen from Uganda .. 10/7
A.L. ARCHER. Southern Tana River observations ....... 107
L.A. BENNUN. The composition of Bwindi Forest bird parties . 108
DALE A. ZIMMERMAN. A twenty-year-old greenbul from western
Kenya . ss « © «© © fe «6: © © ls © ie) ws ve NomrcnmMCnCmmC mmm mmnIMeD
DALE A. ZIMMERMAN. The Yellow-streaked Greenbul in Kenya. . 112
L.A. BENNUN. A nest record for Phylloscopus laetus the Red-
faced Woodland Warbler . . « . « «© i6/ « « ©) spmemecuacnmcnmrCmmnin ie
lettemsto the Editor
P.L. BRITTON on ‘Taxonomic notes on some birds from East
Africa’ by P.A. Clancey <9... . « % .« « «© to) -cumeemmCmmCnnCnCnnOl
Notices
Symposium: Birds of evergreen forest .......«. « « » Iid
GABAR - A new journal covering African raptors ....... 115
Contents of Malimbus 8i(2) December 1986 2 52 2 = = ceeeenG
Scopus subscriptions and 1986 bird records) ~~~) <u
Short reviewS «. s+ «a. 6 © 9S [ew % <oles oy) SR) copie etme ane meron mann
Printed in Kenya by AMREF, Box. 30125, Nairobi
4 S42. ISSN 0250-4162
ras.
SCOPUS
A publication of the
Ornithological Sub-Committee of the
East Africa Natural History Society
Edited by
Graeme Backhurst
Volume 10 No. 5, April 1988: East African Bird Report 1986
SCOPUS
Scopus is normally published five times a year (although issues may be combined)
by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the East Africa Natural History Society.
Subscriptions are paybale to the OSC Hon Treasurer (and Secretary), D.A. Turner
[tel 48772], Scopus a/c, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya, at the following rates:
East African residents: KShs 100.00 (KShs 107.50 up-country)
Overseas, surface mail: Stg£6.00, US$12.00 or equivalent in convertible
currency.
Overseas airmail: Stg£7.50, US$15.00 or equivalent in convertible
currency.
Drafts in Kenya currency cannot be accepted.
Overseas rates apply to all countries other than Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Those
wishing to remit by bank transfer should do so to D.A. Turner, Scopus a/c No.
2852601, Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd., Market Branch, Box 30018, Nairobi.
Other members of the Ornithological Sub-Committee
Dr D.J. Pearson (Chairman), Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi,
Box 30197, Nairobi; house tel 47041. G.C. Backhurst (Editor of Scopus and Ring-
ing Organizer), Box 24702, Nairobi; house tel 891419, office tel 501301. NE.
Baker, Dar es Salaam; Dr Margaret Carswell, UK; M.A.C. Coverdale, Nakuru; J.H.
Fanshawe, Tanzania; Mrs Cecilia Gichuki, Nairobi; Dr K.M. Howell, Dar es
Salaam; Dr W. Karanja, Nairobi; Dr A.D. Lewis, Nairobi; B.S. Meadows, Saudi
Arabia; Dr D.E. Pomeroy, Kampala; J.F. Reynolds, UK; D.K. Richards, Nairobi;
T. Stevenson, Baringo.
Notes for Contributors
Scopus welcomes original contributions on all aspects of the ornithology of eastern
Africa. Contributions will be assessed by members of the OSC and/or by
independent referees. The material published is divided into ‘papers’ and “short com-
munications’, the latter will usually be less than two pages in length.
Contributions should be typed in 1.5 or double spacing on one side of the paper
only, with wide margins all round, and should be sent in duplicate. Hand-written
MSS will also be considered but they must be clearly written, and sent in duplicate
too. Both English and scientific names of birds should be given when the species is
first mentioned, thereafter only one name should be used; they should be those o
Birds of East Africa unless the species does not occur in that work. Tables, which
should be numbered, should appear in the typescript, not grouped together on
separate sheets at the end. Metric units should be used. Contributions will be
welcomed on floppy disk—please contact the Editor for details.
Illustrations should be on good quality white paper or tracing material, in line, and
should not be larger than 19 x 23 cm. Unless the author can provide professional
quality lettering, it should be done lightly in pencil. Each illustration should be
numbered (Fig. 1, etc.) and be provided with a legend typed on a separate sheet 0
paper. Photographs will be considered and should be good quality black and white.
Any reference cited should be listed at the end of the contribution following the
Scopus 10 (5), April 1988
GENERAL REVIEW
This is almost entirely a Kenyan report. We received very few records from
Tanzania in 1986—mostly from the north—and none at all from Uganda. There
were two additions tothe East African list. Immature Shy Albatrosses Diomedea
cauta, vagrants from the southern oceans, were brought ashore by fishermen
near Mtwara, in Tanzania, and Mombasa. The first of these was actually in
September 1985, but details were not available until 1986. The other new species
was even more unexpected. A party of Demoiselle Cranes Anthropoides virgo,
eight adults and a juvenile, was found on pools at Ngomeni, north of Malindi, in
January, and again soon afterwards at the nearby Fundisha salt works. Two
months later what was undoubtedly the same group was seen some 600 km to
the northwest, at Timau. Enquiries failed to elicit any information to suggest
that these birds were escapes, and it is assumed that they were wild birds
wintering over 1500 km south of their normal limit in Ethiopia.
There were fewer than usual other records of real note, but the following
deserve mention: further Black-browed Albatrosses Diomedea melanophrys off
Shimoni, a White-backed Night Heron Gorsachius leuconotus in the Mara, a
Brown-chested Wattled Plover Vanellus superciliosus in central Kenya and
another Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus, this time at Nairobi. It also
came to our attention during the year that no fewer than seven species new to
Tanzania had been discovered in 1984 in Minziro Forest, which lies a few
kilometres south of the Uganda border on the west shore of Lake Victoria (see
Scopus 11: 9-12).
In Kenya, after a rather dry start to the year, the long rains were only
moderate and not very prolonged, starting in early April; northward passage of
Palaearctic passerines was not especially noticeable although substantial
numbers of shrikes Lanius spp. were observed around Nairobi on 11-13 April.
Regular morning visits to the base of powerful lights at the Kiambere dam
construction site on the Tana River revealed scores of migrants, especially
around new moon periods, and some were present there as late as mid May (see
Scopus 11: 38-41). The short rains began in central and southeast Kenya at the
end of October, and there was some early mist then at Ngulia. The rains became
widespread and heavy in many southern parts of the country during late
November and early to mid December. On 7-8 December particularly heavy rain
brought a fall of hundreds of passerine migrants, mostly Sedge Warblers
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus and Reed Warblers A. scirpaceus, to Kichwa
Tembo camp in the Mara, and on the same day some interesting migrants were
caught at Ngulia. Great Reed Warblers A. arundinaceus, which are unusual at
this time of year, were seen at Kichwa Tembo (several), caught at Ngulia (a
record four in one day) and observed at the unlikely site of Olorgesaillie.
The rift valley lakes continued to fall, with very little seasonal inflow during
April—August. Lake Nakuru was very shallow, and thoughit still held hundreds
of thousands of Lesser Flamingos Phoeniconaias minor, there were few waders,
ducks, gulls or pelicans by the end of the year. Lake Naivasha, on the other hand,
had extensive muddy bays and fringes, and held an estimated 10 000 migrant
waders in December, including an unprecedented 300+ Black-tailed Godwits
118 East African Bird Report 1986
Limosa limosa. Ferguson’s Gulf at Lake Turkana was practically dry by March,
and did not refill again.
It is now eight years since the publication of Birds of East Africa. During this
period the taxonomy of some groups has been extensively reviewed; other minor
changes affecting East African birds have been suggested, and some of these
have attracted general approval. Various new English names have also been
introduced, not leastin the on-going handbook series The birds of Africa. We feel,
therefore, that this is an appropriate time to revise the taxonomy and English
nomenclature of the East African list. We plan to produce a revised list during
1988, this time in systematic rather than alphabetic order. We are carrying out
this exercise in consultation with those presently working on the revision of
African bird lists elsewhere, and it is our intention to confine systematic or
English name changes to the minimum necessary to keep abreast of current
ideas and practice.
D.J. Pearson, Chairman, Ornithological Sub-Committee, E.A.N.H.S.
Scopus 10 (5): 117-118, April 1988
SPECIES REPORT
This report covers the three East African countries Kenya, Tanzania and
Uganda (but no records were received from Uganda this year). Records are
included under one or more categories, indicated by code letters as follows:
S(A): Scarce species in category A (five or fewer previous records from East
Africa); all records of such species are published.
S(B): Scarce species in category B (six to twenty-five previous records from
East Africa); all records of such species are published.
R: Species of interest whose status in East Africa requires clarification, and
for which all records are Requested. Records may be listed or summa-
rized in full each year, or reviewed after several years.
Records showing an Extension of range, or from areas where the species
is decidedly uncommon to scarce.
Records included for their Numerical interest, either of particularly
large numbers or of careful counts.
Records of migrants where Dates are of interest.
Records of Breeding interest, from new or unusual areas or involving
interesting numerical elements.
Records of Miscellaneous interest.
Records were collated by D.A. Turner and D.J. Pearson. All refer to Kenya
unless otherwise stated
s Oo 424 &
East African Bird Report 1986 119
Afrotropical and Oceanic Species
PopDICIPEDIDAE: GREBES
Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe R: 1 Lake Nakuru 12 Mar (DKR),
1 Ferguson’s Gulf 20—21 Mar (DAT, DJP), c. 100 Lake Bogoria during July
(TS), 30+ Lake Nakuru 12-13 Nov (DW).
DIOMEDEIDAE: ALBATROSSES
Diomedea cauta Shy Albatross S(A):immature caught off Mombasa late Oct,
died later when taken to Nairobi (per M. Hyder), see Scopus 11:44.
First Kenya record
Diomedea melanophrys Black-browed Albatross S(A): 1 off Shimoni 9 Feb
(MH, PH) and 2 there 16 Sep (SH, JF).
PHAETHONTIDAE: TROPICBIRDS
Phaethon lepturus White-tailed Tropicbird S(B): singles off Shimoni 5 Feb
and 14 Sep (PH).
SULIDAE: BOOBIES
Sula dactylatra Masked Booby Rk: singles off Shimoni 8 Feb, 17 Aug and7 Sep
(PH).
ARDEIDAE: HERONS
Ixobrychus minutus payesii Little Bittern R: pair Nguuni, 9 km NE of
Mombasa, 15 Apr (CR), 5+ SW shore of Lake Baringo, Jun—Jul (TS), 2 males
Thika 18 Aug (JMC), 1 male Ras Ngomeni 23 Aug (JMC), 1 Tana River 4 Nov
(DW), 1 Lake Baringo 11 Nov (DW).
Ixobrychus sturmii Dwarf Bittern R:1 immature Rift Valley swamp behind
the Ngong Hills 4 Jul (ADL).
Ardeola idae Madagascar Squacco Heron R: present Thika OPs 10 May to
20 Sep (DJP), up to 4 Nguuni, near Mombasa May-—Sep (CR), 2 Amboseli
11-12 May (LCDF), 1 Nairobi NP 14 Jul, 27 Aug and 9 Sep (DKR, JMC), 1
near Eldoret 12 Aug (JMC), 1 Ras Ngomeni 24 Aug (JMC) and in Tanzania,
singles Dar es Salaam 24 Aug, 4 and 6 Sep and Rufiji River 25 Aug (ZB).
Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron R: up to 8 Lake Baringo Jan to late Mar (TS),
c. 130 Abarriya (E of Tana River) near Idsowe 22 Feb (LCDF), 1 Nguuni 5 May
(CR), 1 Amboseli 12 May (LCDF), 1-4 Lake Baringo Nov—Dec (TS) and in
Tanzania, singles at Dar es Salaam 7 and 18 Sep (ZB).
Gorsachius leuconotus White-backed Night Heron R:1 at dusk north-west
Mara GR 15 Nov (CG) and 1 Ruaha NP, Tanzania, 29 Aug (ZB).
CICONIIDAE: STORKS
Ciconia abdimii Abdim’s Stork ND: 100s Mara GR 8 Jan (DKR), 30 there on
16 Mar and 11 Apr (DKR). In Tanzania, 100s Ngorongoro Crater highlands
10-11 Feb and 100s Serengeti 12-16 Feb (DKR), c. 250 Tunduma 16 Dec
(DM).
Ciconia episcopus Woolly-necked Stork E: 1 Lake Baringo 13 Apr (TS); a
pair Mara GR throughout the year (DKR, DW, JMC) and a few throughout
the year Kiambere—Kindaruma—Kamburu (BB).
120 East African Bird Report 1986
Leptoptilos crumeniferus Marabou B: c. 12 pairs breeding Karura dam,
Tana River in Sep (BB).
PHOENICOPTERIDAE: FLAMINGOS
Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo EN: Lake Naivasha: 300+ 14 Mar
and 100+ 23 Nov (DKR). 3
ANATIDAE: DUCKS AND GEESE
Nettapus auritus African Pygmy Goose R: 10 Tiwi pond, south of Mombasa
1 May (CR), and present Port Victoria 6-7 Aug (JMC).
ACCIPITRIDAE: BIRDS OF PREY
Gypohierax angolensis Palm-nut Vulture ER: 1 Kindaruma 3 Aug and 26
Oct (BB), present Karura dam 20 Sep (BB), 1 Thika 30 Oct (TS).
Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeyer R: 1 Timau 4 Mar (DJP), 1 Amboseli 11
May (LCDF); in Tanzania, 1 Serengeti NP near Gol Mts 14 Feb (DKR) and
1 Gol Mts 28 Jul (DM).
Circaetus fasciolatus Southern Banded Snake Eagle R:1 Shimba Hills 22
Mar (CR).
Accipiter minullus Little Sparrowhawk R: records only recived from the
coast and Tana River areas.
Accipiter ovampensis Ovampo Sparrowhawk R:1 Mara GR 31 Aug (DAT).
In Tanzania, 1 Ruaha River gorge between Morogoro and Iringa 29 Aug (ZB).
Accipiter rufiventris Rufous Sparrowhawk E: 1 immature O! Doinyo Orok
(Namanga) 24 Mar (LAB, et al.—see Scopus 10: 83-86).
Aquila verreauxi Verreaux’s Eagle E: Tanzanian records from Lake Man-
yara NP and Ruaha River gorge (DW, FA, DM, ZB).
Butastur rufipennis Grasshopper Buzzard R:1 Lake Bilisa 22 Feb (LDCF),
up to 5 Kiambere 27 Feb to 9 Apr (BB), 1 Taita Hills 7 Apr (DJP); singles
Tsavo West NP 2 and 6 Nov (GCB) and Meru NP 8 Nov (DKR).
Kaupifalco monogrammicus Lizard Buzzard E: singles Mara GR 17 Mar
and 13 May (DKR).
Stephanoaetus coronatus Crowned Eagle R: pair inriverine forest Thika 29
Mar (BB).
Aviceda cuculoides Cuckoo Hawk R: recorded from Nairobi, Aberdare
Salient and Mara GR Jan, Mar, Jul and Aug.
Chelictinia riocourii Swallow-tailed Kite R: recorded from Kedong Valley,
Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, Loiengalani, Suguta Valley and near Lodwar.
Macheiramphus alcinus Bat Hawk R: recorded from Kakamega, Lake
Baringo, Treetops (Aberdares) and Kilifi.
F'ALCONIDAE: FALCONS
Falco alopex Fox Kestrel R: 1 Suguta Valley 20 Oct (MACC).
Falco chicquera Red-necked Falcon R: only reported from Sabaki River
mouth 24 Nov (DW).
Falco cuvieri African Hobby R: only records were from Meru town, Kisumu
and Kakamega in Nov (DKR, DW).
Falco rupicoloides White-eyed Kestrel E: present Lodwar area 20 and 21
Mar (DJP, ADL, DAT).
East African Bird Report 1986 121
PHASIANIDAE: GAME BIRDS
Coturnix chinensis Blue Quail R: male near Ololoo Gate, Mara GR in Aug
(BWF).
Francolinus psilolaemus Moorland Francolin R: 5 on northern grasslands,
Mt Kenya 3 May (JPC), c. 4 Lewa Downs 26 Sep (TS).
Ptilopachus petrosus Stone Partridge R: common near Ewaso Nyiro near
Barsalinga 1 Jun (DKR) and calling Lewa Downs 10 Aug and 11 Oct (DKR).
NuMIDIDAE: GUINEAFOWLS
Guttera pucherani Kenya Crested Guineafowl R: a flock in forest at the
north end of Meru NP 15 and 16 Aug (DKR).
TURNICIDAE: BUTTON QUAILS
Turnix sylvatica Button Quail R: singles caught and ringed Ngulia 2 and 6
Dec (GCB, DJP). B: adult and 2 young Tsavo West NP 29 Dec (BG).
RALLIDAE: RAILS, CRAKES
Crex egregia African Crake R: singles at Nguuni 5 and 25 May, 14Jun,1 Jul,
20 Aug and 20 Oct (CR), 2 Ngomeni 13 Sep (TS) and Mogotio 30 Nov (TS).
Porphryrio alleni Allen’s Gallinule R: up to 50 Lake Baringo Mar—Aug (TS)
and singles Thika area 5 Jan and 12 Jul (BB).
Sarothrura elegans Buff-spotted Pygmy Crake R: calling Irangi Forest, Mt
Kenya at 2000 m 8 Apr (DAT).
Sarothrura rufa Red-chested Pygmy Crake R: in Tanzania, common in
reeds Tatanda throughout the year (DM).
HELIORNITHIDAE: FINFOOTS
Podica senegalensis African Finfoot R: 1 Nairobi NP 12 Apr and 1 Aug
(LCDF, JMC). B: building nest Nairobi NP during Mar (DAT).
OTIDIDAE: BUSTARDS
Neotis denhami Denham’s Bustard R: recorded as follows: Aitong, MaraGR,
Maralal and between Wamba and Maralal (JPC, DKR, DAT, DW).
RosTRATULIDAE: PAINTED SNIPES
Rostratula benghalensis Painted Snipe R: recorded from Lake Baringo, Rift
Valley Swamp behind Ngong Hills, Athi River, Lake Kenyatta and near
Homa Bay, Feb, Mar, Jun—Aug (ADL, TS, LCDF, JMC). In Tanzania from the
Selous GR on 27 Aug (ZB).
CHARADRIIDAE: PLOVERS
Charadrius marginatus White-fronted Sandplover R: 1 Kindaruma Dam
11 Jan (BB).
Charadrius pallidus Chestnut-banded Sandplover E:12 Suguta Valley 31
Dec (MACC).
Vanellus lugubris Senegal Plover B: pair with 2 eggs Aberdare Salient 3 Mar
(DKR) and a pair with 2 young near Lolgorien 17 Nov (DW).
Vanellus superciliosus Brown-chested Wattled Plover E: 1 with broken
wing Ruiru, 10 km north of Nairobi, early Jan (DJP).
First Kenya record away from Lake Victoria
122 East African Bird Report 1986
GLAREOLIDAE: COURSERS, PRATINCOLES
Cursorius cursor Cream-colloured Courser B: pair with chick Lewa Downs
18 Oct (DKR).
LARIDAE: GULLS AND TERNS
Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern R: 7 Sabaki River mouth 24 Aug (JMC).
Sterna repressa White-cheeked Tern R: recorded from Sabaki River mouth
(>500 24 Aug), Malindi, Tiwi and Galu Mar, May, Aug and Nov(LCDF, DJP,
JMC, DW).
RYNCHOPIDAE: SKIMMERS
Rynchops flavirostris African Skimmer R: records from Lake Nakuru,
Kindaruma and Sabaki River mouth (BB, DKR, LCDF, JMC); in Tanzania
up to 25 Rufiji River late Aug (ZB) and 7 in Ruaha NP 31 Aug (ZB).
PTEROCLIDAE: SANDGROUSE
Pterocles lichtensteinii Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse R: 13 Samburu GR 3-4
Apr (JPC).
MusoPHAGIDAE: TURACOS
Tauraco leucolophus White-crested Turaco R: recorded near Nakuru and
Marigat Nov and Dec (DKR, DAT).
CUCULIDAE: CUCKOOS
Cercococcyx montanus Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo R: 2-3 calling Irangi
Forest, 2000 m, Mt Kenya between Feb and Apr (DAT, DAZ, DJP) were the
first records from the mountain since Mar 1962.
Clamator glandarius Great Spotted Cuckoo R: recorded Lodwar,
Ferguson’s Gulf, Eliye Springs, Katilu, Mara GR in late Mar (JPC, DJP,
ADL), Emali 5 Apr (DJP), Meru NP 14 Jun (JPC); Buffalo Springs and
Archer’s Post 7—8 Nov (DW) and Lake Naivasha 31 Nov and 8 Dec (MACC).
B: c. 20 Lake Baringo May—Jul: hosts Red-winged Starling Onychognathus
morio and Bristle-crowned Starling O. salvadorii (TS).
Clamator jacobinus Black and White Cuckoo R: Katilu 24-25 Mar, Nairobi
NP 12 Apr, Taita Hills Lodge 13 Apr, Mariakani 18 Apr, Nguuni, near
Mombasa 30 Apr; 1 black phase Nguuni, near Mombasa 10 Jul; Isiolo 7 Nov,
Samburu GR 7-8 Nov, Tsavo West from 2 Nov (including 11 ringed) Ngulia,
Kiambere Nov (several observers).
Clamator levaillantii Levaillant’s Cuckoo R: 1 black phase Nguuni, near
Mombasa 10 Jul (CR); 2 Amboseli 14 Nov (TS).
Cuculus clamosus Black Cuckoo R: 1 Meru NP 14 Jun (JPC), a few Lake
Naivasha during Aug (JMC) and Tsavo West NP in Nov (DJP).
Cuculus gularis African Cuckoo R: recorded as follows: Meto mid Mar,
Katilu late Mar, Kajiado mid Apr, Naivasha late Apr, Olorgesaille mid May,
Lake Baringo Apr—Jul, Samburu (coast) Oct and 2 immatures Lake Nakuru
13 Nov (DJP, CR, TS, DW).
Centropus grillii Black Coucal R: 1 Nguuni, near Mombasa 26 Jun (CR).
STRIGIDAE: OWLS
Bubo capensis Mackinder’s Eagle Ow] R: 1 Hell’s Gate 15 Jan (LCDF).
East African Bird Report 1986 123
Otus leucotis White-faced Scops Owl R: at least 4 pairs resident within 3-km
radius of Lake Baringo Lodge (TS).
Scotopelia peli Pel’s Fishing Owl R: pair Thiba River, Kamburu 27 Mar, 17
May and 8 Jun (BB).
CAPRIMULGIDAE: NIGHTJARS
Caprimulgus clarus Slender-tailed Nightjar R: 4 ringed Ngulia 24 and 26
Nov (GCB).
Caprimulgus donaldsoni Donaldson-Smith’s Nightjar R: 1 Taita Hills
Sanctuary 13 Apr (CR); 3 ringed Ngulia between 24 Nov and 4 Dec (GCB,
DJP).
Caprimulgus fraenatus Dusky Nightjar R: 1 found dead10 km SW of Thika
23 Jan (DJP); 3-4 Nairobi NP 3 Nov (DW), 3 ringed 27 Nov to 10 Dec Ngulia
(GCB, DJP).
Caprimulgus inornatus Plain Nightjar R: 1 collected Lake Baringo 9 Oct
(DAT), 2 (1 found dead) there late Oct to early Nov(TS), 3 ringed Ngulia 7 Nov
to 4 Dec (GCB, DJP).
Caprimulgus natalensis White-tailed Nightjar R: 1 calling Kakamega 15
Nov (DW).
Caprimulgus nubicus Nubian Nightjar R: 1 found dead 50 km N of Marich
Pass 24 Mar (DJP, ADL); male ringed Ngulia 3 Dec (GCB).
APODIDAE: SWIFTS
Apus derliozi Forbes-Watson’s Swift S(B): 40-50 over Sokoke Forest 15 Mar
(LCDF), scores there 1 Nov (DJP) and 8 and 3 there 17 Nov (TS).
Apus horus Horus Swift E: 6+ Kibos, Kisumu 25 Mar (LCDF).
Schoutedenapus myoptilus Scarce Swift R: a few over the Kikuyu escarp-
ment 8 Jun (CR).
Neafrapus boehmi B6hm’s Spinetail R: 2 Karawa Dam 1 Jan (BB), 2 Kibwezi
Forest 20 Aug (JMC), 1 Diani Forest 12 and 14 Oct (TS).
MEROPIDAE: BEE-EATERS
Merops nubicus Carmine Bee-eater B: colony of >300 pairs excavating c. 15
km E of Lodwar 21-22 Mar (ADL, DJP, DAT). E: 3 Lake Naivasha 31 Mar
(MACC).
COoRACIMAE: ROLLERS
Coracias abyssinica Abyssinian Roller R: recorded from Lodwar and Lake
Baringo (FA, TS, DAT) and 3 at Lake Nakuru 5 Dec (DKR).
Coracias caudata Lilac-breasted Roller E: an example of the northern race
lorti caught at night at Ngulia 10 Dec (GCB).
Coracias abyssinica x caudata M: 1 photographed at Katilu 23 Mar was
apparently a hybrid (ADL, DJP, DAT).
Coracias naevia Rufous-crowned Roller N: c. 20 Lewa Downs 10 Aug
(DKR).
Eurystomus glaucurus Broad-billed Roller R: singles in Meru and Lake
Nakuru NPs in Oct (DKR).
124 East African Bird Report 1986
PHOENICULIDAE: WOOD HOOPOES
Phoeniculus granti Violet Wood Hoopoe R: 2 near Wamba 26 May (TS).
BucEROTIDAE: HORNBILLS
Tockus hemprichii Hemprich’s Hornbill B: pair nesting in same cliff site at
Lake Baringo for sixth consecutive year (TS). R: 1 Menengai 26 Apr (MACC).
CaPITONIDAE: BARBETS
Buccanodon whytii Whyte’s Barbet R: locally common Tatanda, SW Tan-
zania throughout the year (DM).
Lybius bidentatus Double-toothed Barbet B: adult feeding young
Kakamega town 16 Nov (DW).
Lybius frontatus Miombo Pied Barbet S(B): common in woodland around
Tatanda, SW Tanzania (DM). |
Lybius minor Black-backed Barbet R: locally common Tatanda, SW Tanza-
nia throughout the year (DM).
INDICATORIDAE: HONEYGUIDES
Indicator exilis Least Honeyguide R: at least 2 Kakaviees 15 Nov (DW).
Indicator meliphilus Pallid Honeyguide R: at Irangi, Mt Kenya at 2000 m
1 on 13 Mar and 3 on 8 Apr (DAT, DJP).
PICIDAE: WOODPECKERS
Picoides obsoletus Brown-backed Woodpecker R: recorded from Kericho,
Nyeri and Nairobi (JPC, TS, PW).
ALAUDIDAE: LARKS
Mirafra pulpa Friedmann’s Bush Lark S(B): 1 south of Kapedo 25 Mar
(DJP, DAT, ADL).
CoRVIDAE: CROWS
Corvus rhipidurus Fan-tailed Raven E: 8 Menengai Crater 6 Sep (ADL).
Ptilostomus afer Piapiac R: 8+ Kibos, Kisumu, 27 Mar (LCDF).
Third Kenya record
REMIZIDAE: PENDULINE TITS
Remizcaroli African Penduline Tit EB: pair building at Kongolai 1 Apr (TS).
TIMALIIDAE: BABBLERS
Trichastoma rufipennis Pale-breasted Illadopsis E: 2 trapped Ol Doinyo
Orok, Namanga 22 Mar (LAB, CMG, JD, FN).
Turdoides hindei Hinde’s Pied Babbler R: 2-3 groups of 6-10 birds present
in the Kianyaga area throughout the year (DAT); 8-10 east of Embu 18 Aug
(JMC).
PycNONOTIDAE: BULBULS
Andropadus milanjensis Stripe-cheeked Greenbul E: 1 trapped Ol Doinyo
Orok, Namanga, 23 Mar (LAB, CMG, JD, FN).
Chlorocichla flavicollis Yellow-throated Leaflove E: 1 Lake Naivasha 19
Oct (DJP). Full details received.
East African Bird Report 1986 125
TURDIDAE: THRUSHES
Cercomela familiaris Red-tailed Chat E: recorded Kito Pass and resident
Osiriwa escarpment, Mara GR (ADL, TS, DAT, BWF).
Monticola rufocinerea Little Rock Thrush R: singles Lake Baringo 1 Mar
(DKR) and Kito Pass 25 Mar (DJP, ADL, DAT), resident 40 km west of Mugie
(TS) and at Mweiga (JPC), 1 near Meru 6 Nov (DKR).
Oenanthe bottae Red-breasted Wheatear R: 114 km south of Lodwar 22
Mar (ADL, DJP, DAT).
Turdus fischeri Spotted Ground Thrush RD: 9 trapped and ringed Gedi 24
Jul to 1 Aug (LAB), 2 Gedi 18 Aug (DAT), 2 Diani Forest 12 Oct (TS).
SYLVIIDAE: WARBLERS
Apalis melanocephala Black-headed Apalis R: several Meru forest Mar
(DJP) and a pair Karen forest, Nairobi, 1 Nov (DW).
Chloropeta gracilirostris Papyrus Yellow Warbler E: 1 Kisumu 8 Nov
(TS).
Cisticola aberrans Rock-loving Cisticola E: several pairs resident Osiriwa
escarpment, Mara GR, presumably of the race emini, which would be new for
Kenya, see Scopus 11: 44-46 (BWF, TS, DAT).
Cisticola woosnami Trilling Cisticola E: several pairs resident at forest
edges above and below Osiriwa escarpment, Mara GR (BWF, DAT).
Hyliota flavigaster Yellow-bellied Hyliota E: at least 5 resident throughout
the year around the Osiriwa escarpment and Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR
(BWF).
Sylvietta rufescens Long-billed Crombec: 1 seen and heard near Kasanga,
SW Tanzania, 24 June (DM).
MuscIcaPIDAE: FLYCATCHERS
Muscicapa gambagae Gambaga Flycatcher R:1 juvenile caught and ringed
at night Ngulia 25 Nov (DJP).
Muscicapa lendu Chapin’s Flycatcher R: 2 Kakamega Forest 8 Sep (TS) and
1 with nest material there 30 Nov (DJP, DAT).
Myioparus plumbeus Lead-coloured Flycatcher E: singles Lake Baringo
Apr—Aug (TS).
MotTAcILLIDAE: WAGTAILS AND PIPITS
Anthus similis Long-billed Pipit E: 1 Athi River area, Nairobi NP 14 Oct
(DJP).
Macronyx sharpei Sharpe’s Longclaw R: several pairs with immatures near
Timau Jun—Jul (TS).
MaLacoONOTIDAE: BUSH SHRIKES
Dryoscopus pringlii Pringle’s Puffback E: 1 Katilu near Lokichar 24 Mar
(DJP).
PRIONOPIDAE: HELMET SHRIKES
Prionops retzii Retz’s Helmet Shrike E: in Meru NP 10+ 15 Aug and 15 on
10 Oct (DKR).
STURNIDAE: STARLINGS
Cinnyricinclus sharpii Sharpe’s Starling E: 1 Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR
126 East African Bird Report 1986
with Violet-backed Starlings C. leucogaster during Aug (BWF).
Speculipastor bicolor Magpie Starling R: a few Lake Baringo Feb—Mar
(JPC), >20 Samburu GR 5 Apr (DKR), 20 near Lake Baringo 14 Aug (JMC).
NECTARINIIDAE: SUNBIRDS
Nectarinia habessinica Shining Sunbird R: records from the Archer’s
Post—Wamba road and the Kito Pass (DAT, DJP, ADL).
PLOCEIDAE: WEAVERS
Anomalospiza imberbis Parasitic Weaver R: 2 Nairobi NP 12 Apr (LCDF).
Euplectes diadematus Fire-fronted Bishop RE: 4 Nguuni, near Mombasa
21 Oct (CR), 1 male Malindi 25 Nov (DW).
Passer castanopterus Somali Sparrow R: pair nesting c. 22 km south of
Lodwar 22 Mar (DJP, ADL, DAT).
Hypochera purpurascens Jameson’s Firefinch Indigobird E: male ringed
Ngulia 9 Dec (GCB).
Vidua obtusa Broad-tailed Paradise Whydah R: afew around Tatanda, SW
Tanzania, Aug and Nov (DM).
E'sTRILDIDAE: WAXBILLS
Lagonosticta rara Black-bellied Firefinch R: several Port Victoria 6-7 Aug
(JMC).
Mandingoa nitidula Green-backed Twinspot E: 3 ringed Ngulia 6 Nov
(GCB).
Ortygospiza locustella Locust Finch R: Seen and heard near Tatanda, SW
Tanzania, Aug, Nov and Dec and a female caught and ringed after dark 21
Nov (DM).
FRINGILLIDAE: BUNTINGS AND FINCHES
Emberiza striolata House Bunting R:c. 12 Hurran Hurra well, east side of
Lake Turkana, Aug (FA).
Linurgus olivaceus Oriole Finch E: at least two pairs of the race kilimensis,
Ol Doinyo Orok, 22-24 Mar (LAB, CMG, JD, FN). First record of this race for
Kenya.
Palaearctic species
Ixobrychus minutus minutus Little Bittern R: 1 Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR
7 Nov (BWF).
Ciconia ciconia White Stork N: 3000+ at an armyworm Spodoptera exempta
concentration at Babati (northern Tanzania) 26 Feb; 1000+ Mara GR 13-15
Mar and again 26-27 Dec; 1000+ Amboseli 19-20 Dec (DAT).
Ciconia nigra Black Stork R: recorded Nairobi area, Marich Pass, Suguta,
Samburu GR, Marsabit, Aberdares, Mara GR and Kibwezi; ones and twos
only, up to 27 Mar and from 24 Oct (many observers).
Anas acuta Pintail N: c. 1100 Simini’s Dam, Kinangop 1 Feb (DJP). E: c. 20
near Idsowe, Garsen 22 Feb (LDCF). .
Anas clypeata Shoveler E: 9 Ngorongoro, Tanzania, 10 Feb (DKR).
East African Bird Report 1986 127
Anas crecca Teal R: recorded only at Lake Naivasha: up to1 Feb(max 18+) and
from 9 Nov (max 10+) (DJP, DEW).
Anas penelope Wigeon R: at Lake Naivasha up to 21 Feb (max 10+) and 2 there
29 Nov; 11 Simini’s Dam, Kinangop 1 Feb and 1 Lake Baringo 8 Dec (DJP,
LDCF, TS).
Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck R: 3 males and 2 females Thika OPs 26 Jan
(LDCF).
Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck S(B): 2 females Naivasha 19 Jan and 1
male there 19 Oct (DJP).
Circus aeruginosus Eurasian Marsh Harrier D: an early bird at Lake
Nakuru 28 Sep (ADL).
Accipiter nisus Eurasian Sparrowhawk S(B): an immature female Kabete
18 Jan (DJP). Full details received; accepted by the RBC.
Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle S(B): a sub-adult Mara GR 19 Nov (DEW) and
an adult Ngulia 25 Nov (DJP). Full details of both received.
Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle N: 110+ moving north Timau 6 Nov (DEW)
andc. 60 there on 7 Nov (DJP, AEB). Hundreds near Arusha (Tanzania) 9 Feb
(DKR). D: an early bird Olorgesaillie 5 Oct (DJP).
Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle R: recorded up to 10 Feb and from
6 Nov, with largest numbersc. 20 Timau 7 Nov (DJP, AEB) and 20 near Arusha
(Tanzania) 9 Feb (DKR).
Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle R: recorded Kakamega, Saguta, Timau,
and Tsavo; single birds only, up to 29 Mar and from 20 Oct (several observers).
Pernis apivorus Honey Buzzard R: one Kakamega 30 Mar (LDCF) and 1
Sokoke 2 Nov (DJP) were the only records received.
Falco amurensis Eastern Red-footed Falcon R: 1 east Laikipia 8 Nov
(DEW); 1 Ngulia 29 Nov (DJP, AR, DAT); 250+ flying in to roost Ngulia valley
4 Dec (DJP).
Falco concolor Sooty Falcon R: singles Naivasha 28 Oct and 19 Nov(MACC),
Manyani 31 Oct (DJP) and Ngulia 4 Nov (GCB).
Falco eleonorae Eleonora’s Falcon S(B): 1 Timau 6 Jan (DKR); 1 Ngulia 28
Nov (VH).
Crex crex Corncrake R: 2 Ngulia 8 Dec (GCB).
Anthropoides virgo Demoiselle Crane S(A): 8 adults and 1 immature,
Ngomeni, 15 Jan (L.A.S. Grumbley).
First Kenya and East African record
Porzana porzana Spotted Crake S(B): 2 on small pond 20 km east of Lodwar
18 and 21 Mar (DJP, ADL, DAT).
Haematopus ostralegus Oystercatcher R: 1 Malindi 21-31 Jan and 2 there
12 and 15 Mar (LDCF, PGS, HAG).
Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover R: 5 Ferguson’s Gulf 19 Mar and
3 Eliye Springs 20 Mar (DJP, ADL).
Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover R: recorded to 27 Apr and from 19
Oct from Naivasha, Nakuru, Menengai area, Baringo, Saguta, the Athi and
Tana rivers and Mombasa; max 15+ Naivasha 22-24 Dec, 10 Saguta 29 Dec
(BB, MACC, LDCF, DJP, TS, DEW).
Charadrius leschenaultii Greater Sandplover E: inland: 1 Ferguson’s Gulf
19 Mar (DJP, ADL).
128 East African Bird Report 1986
Charadrius mongolus Mongolian Sandplover E: inland: 9 Ferguson’s Gulf
19 Mar (DJP, ADFL).
Pluvialis dominica Lesser Golden Plover S(B): 7 at usual site at Lake Bilisa
22 Feb (LDCF).
Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover E: inland: 27+ Ferguson’s Gulf area 19
Mar, and 21 Eliye Springs 20 Mar (DJP, ADL).
Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel E: inland: 1 Lake Naivasha 30 Mar (DJP).
Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank R: recorded to 26 Apr and from 3 Nov
at Lakes Naivasha, Baringo and Nakuru and at Kinangop, Mugie, Mara GR,
Thika and Ahero, max c. 20 Lake Naivasha late Dec; also 1 Shakababo13 Mar
(LDCF, DJP, DKR, DAT, DEW, TS).
Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper E: inland: singles Lake Naivasha 19 Jan,
1 Feb and 219 Oct; 1 Ferguson’s Gulf 19 Mar; 1 Samburu GR 7 Nov (LDCF,
ADL, DJP, DEW).
Gallinago media Great Snipe R: 1 near coast at Lake Kenyatta 14 Mar
(LDCF); 1 Lake Baringo 2 May (TS); 1 Nairobi 31 Oct (DJP).
Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe S(B): singles Lake Baringo 29 Nov and
Mogotio 30 Nov (TS).
Calidris alba Sanderling E: inland: 27 counted Ferguson’s Gulf19 Mar (ADL,
DJP).
Calidris temminckii Temminck’s Stint R: recorded from Lakes Naivasha,
Nakuru and Baringo, Kinangop, Suguta and Mombasa, up to 26 Apr and from
9 Nov, max 15+ Lake Naivasha late Dec (MACC, LDCF, DJP, TS).
Limicola falcinellus Broad-billed Sandpiper R: 34 counted Sabaki River
mouth 24 Nov (DEW).
Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit R: 1 inland at Lake Naivasha 13 Apr
(DJP). 1 Galu beach 12 Nov (DJP).
Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit R: recorded to 26 Apr and from 18 Oct,
from Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, Saguta, Lower Tana River, and Ahero:
numbers at Lake Naivasha rose to over 300 by end of the year, an unprece-
dented count in the southern rift (LDCF, MACC, DEW, DJP). Also1 on coast
at Sabaki River mouth 24 Nov (DEW).
Arenaria interpres Turnstone E: inland: 1 Kataboi, west Lake Turkana 21
Mar (ADL, DJP). 1 Lake Nakuru 12 Nov (DEW).
Phalaropus lobatus Red-necked Phalarope R: 1 Lake Nakuru 6 Jan (PGS,
HAG).
Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curlew R: singles Lake Baringo 16 and 23 Dec
(QS).
Stercorarius pomarinus Pomarine Skua S(B): 1 Malindi 21 Jan (PGS,
HAG).
Larus genei Slender-billed Gull S(B): 6 Eliye Springs 20 Mar (ADL, DJP); a
single adult Lake Naivasha 9 and 26 Apr (DKR, DJP); 2 adults Lake Nakuru
14 Nov (DJP, DAT).
Larus ichthyaetus Great Black-headed Gull R: 2 sub-adults Malindi 21-26
Jan (PGS, HAG) and 1 there 23 Feb (LDCF).
Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern S(B): 1 Malindi 24 and 26 Jan (PGS,
HAG).
East African Bird Report 1986 129
Caprimulgus europaeus Eurasian Nightjar R: recorded mid Apr Nairobi
(Karen) and Kiambere (BB, JRPC); 6 ringed Ngulia 2-26 Nov (GCB, DJP).
Coracias garrulus Eurasian Roller DN: 100s moving SE Voi/Ndara Ranch
area as early as 1 Nov (DJP).
Upupa epops Hoopoe RE: a Palaearctic bird Solai 8 Dec (MACC).
Luscinia megarhynchos Nightingale E: several in song Ewaso Nyiro,
Samburu GR, late Dec (DJP); singing at Island Camp, Lake Baringo, Jan to
early Mar (TS).
Luscinia luscinia Sprosser E: 2 singing, presumably wintering, Bissel 16
Mar (AEB, DJP); on northward passage, 2+ Tawa (Machakos) 4 Apr, scores
Mwatate—Bura area (Taita Hills) 7 Apr, 2 Kiambere12 Apr and 2 there17 Apr
(BB, DJP).
Trania gutturalis Irania E: 1 Nyambenis above Meru NP 4 Mar and 1 in song
Kajiado 1 Apr (DJP); 1-2 Kiambere 12-18 Apr and 2 there 29 Nov (BB).
Acrocephalus arundinaceus Great Reed Warbler ER: 2 near Mwatate
(Taita Hills) 7 Apr; common Mara GR 9-13 Apr; c. 6 Amboseli 22—23 Apr; up
to 4 Kiambere 12 Apr to 3 May (BB, DJP, DKR, TS). More records than usual
on southward passage: 2 Kiambere 29 Nov; 4 ringed Ngulia 7 Dec after a night
of exceptionally heavy rain; 2—3 in heavy rain Olorgesaillie 7 Dec; 7-8 in large
fall of migrants Kichwa Tembo 7 Dec and 1 there 8 Dec (BB, DJP, GCB, BWF,
DAT).
Acrocephalus griseldis Basra Reed Warbler R: 5—6 Lake Kenyatta 14 Mar
(LDCF). 57 ringed Ngulia between 2 Nov and 10 Dec (GCB, DJP); 2 Kiambere
29 Nov (BB). |
Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler ER: northward passage records: 4+
Taita Hills 7 Apr (DJP), 1-2 Kiambere 16 Apr to 7 May (BB).
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus Sedge Warbler M: 300+ in large fall of
migrants Kichwa Tembo 7 Dec (BWF).
Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler M: 100+ in large fall of migrants
Kichwa Tembo 7 Dec (BWF).
Hipplais icterina Icterine Warbler R: 1 singing Kalakol River, Ferguson’s
Gulf, 21 Mar (DJP, DAT, ADL). 1 caught and ringed Ngulia 7 Dec (GCB, DJP).
Hippolais languida Upcher’s Warbler E: 1-2 daily Lake Baringo Jan—Feb
(TS), 1 Olorgesaillie 19 Mar (LAB), small numbers Kiambere 14 Apr to 2 May
(BB).
Hippolais olivetorum Olive-tree Warbler R: 1 Kiambere 12 Apr (BB). 2-3
near Isiolo 7 and 8 Nov(DJP, AEB); 10 ringed Ngulia between 2 Nov and 4 Dec
(GCB, DJP); 1 Kichwa Tembo 6 Dec (BWF).
Hippolais pallida Olivaceous Warbler D: alate bird Kiambere 14 May (BB).
Locustella fluviatilis River Warbler R: 4+ recorded and song heard along
Ewaso Nyiro, Samburu GR, 28 Dec (DJP). 202 ringed Ngulia between 2 Nov
and 10 Dec (GCB, DJP).
Phylloscopus collybita Chiffchaff R: 2 singing Aberdares NP above North
Kinangop 11 Jan (LCDF).
Phylloscopus sibilatrix Wood Warbler S(B): 1 Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR 7
Dec (BWF).
130 East African Bird Report 1986
Sylvia communis Whitethroat D: 2 Kiambere 14 May and 5 on 15 May (BB).
E: 4 Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR 7 Dec and 8 Dec (BWF).
Sylvia nisoria Barred Warbler R: recorded from the usual areas; late birds
Kiambere 14-18 Apr (BB).
Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher R: 2 Mara GR 11 Apr (DKR).
Singles Kakamega 13 and 15 Nov and Lake Nakuru 16 Nov (DJP, DKR).
Ficedula sp. 1 Kichwa Tembo, Mara GR, 26 Oct (BWF, ADL).
Motacilla alba White Wagtail R: 4+ on dams north of Menengai 27 Jan (DJP,
MACC). 3+ Mogotio mid—end Nov (TS).
Motacilla cinerea Grey Wagtail E: male Ngulia 1-3 Nov (GCB).
Lanius isabllinus Red-tailed Shrike D: 1 Kiambere 1 May (BB) was excep-
tionally late.
Lanius nubicus Nubian Shrike S(B): 1 Lake Baringo from 8 Nov to end of the
year (ADL, DEW, TS et al.).
Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting S(A): 1 Taita Hills Lodge, 7 Jan(DAZ;
photographs and full details received; accepted by RBC).
Second Kenya and East Africa record—the first was at Lake Baringo
on 15 Oct 1910
Back ReEcorps
Diomedeacauta Shy Albatross S(A): animmature of the nominate race, 7 Sep
1985 Mtwara, southern Tanzania (D. and C. Watt; photograph and full details
received; accepted by RBC).
First record for Tanzania and East Africa
Fregata ariel Lesser Frigatebird one on a date between 12 and 15 Jan 1980,
Watamu, north Kenya coast (L. Grant; see Scopus 9: 110-111).
First record for Kenya
Mirafra gilletti Gillett’s Lark at least 14 collected by C.F. von Erlanger in
May 1901 in north-east Kenya; see Miskell & Ash (1985), Scopus 9: 53-54.
First records for Kenya
Trochocercus albiventris White-bellied Crested Flycatcher S(B): 1
trapped Impenetrable (Bwindi) Forest, SW Uganda 7 Sep 1984 (LAB); see
Scopus 10: 87-91.
Malaconotus lagdeni Lagden’s Bush Shrike S(A): 4 seen Impenetrable
(Bwindi) Forest, south-west Uganda Sep 1984 (LAB); see Scopus 9: 11-114.
The following seven species—all new for the country—recorded in Minziro
Forest, north-west Tanzania in early December 1984, were dealt with by Baker
& Hirslund (Scopus 11: 9-12) but were not submitted for the 1984 Bird Report:
Trichastoma albipectus Scaly-breasted Illadopsis
Bleda eximia Green-tailed Bristlebill
Phyllastrephus xavieri Xavier’s Greenbul
Ixonotus guttatus Spotted Greenbul
Alethe diademata Fire-crested Alethe
Sheppardia cyornithopsis Akalat
Nesocharis ansorgei White-collared Olive-back
East African Bird Report 1986 131
First and last dates of some Palaearctic migrant landbirds
(mostly from Central and SE Kenya)
Species
Cuculus canorus
Merops apiaster
Coracias garrulus
Riparia riparia
Delichon urbica
Oriolus oriolus
Cercotrichas galactotes
Trania gutturalis
Luscinia luscinia
L. megarhynchos
Monticola saxatilis
Oenanthe isabellina
O. oenanthe
O. pleschanka
Acrocephalus arundinaceus
A. griseldis
A. palustris
A. schoenobaenus
A. scirpaceus
Hippolais languida
H. olivetorum
H. pallida
Locustella fluviatilis
Phylloscopus trochilus
Sylvia atricapilla
S. borin
S. communis
S. nisoria
Muscicapa striata
Anthus cervinus
A. trivialis
Motacilla cinerea
M. flava
Lanius collurio
L. isabellinus
L. minor
Last date
24.04 Athi River
10.04 Kajiado
03.05 Athi River
11.05 Naivasha
20.04 Naivasha
23.03 Shimba Hills
18.04 Kiambere
18.04 Kiambere
17.04 Kiambere
06.04 Tiwi
15.04 Kiambere
10.04 Kajiado
13.04 Kiambere
12.04 Kiambere
03.05 Kiambere
07.05 Kiambere
14.05 Kiambere
02.05 Kiambere
12.04 Kiambere
14.05 Kiambere
03.05 Athi River
23.03 Kakamega
15.05 Kiambere
18.04 Kiambere
24.04 Athi River
10.04 Kajiado
11.05 Naivasha
06.05 Kiambere
01.05 Kiambere
02.05 Kiambere
First date
10.09 Nakuru
20.10 Suguta
21.09 Niavasha
19.09 Athi River
19.10 Naivasha
02.11 Ngulia
02.11 Ngulia
01.10 Voi
21.10 Nairobi
31.10 Nairobi
05.10 Ngong Hills
09.09 Nairobi
19.10 Naivasha
29.11 Kiambere
02.11 Ngulia
01.11 Ngulia
30.10 Athi River
02.11 Ngulia
02.11 Ngulia
02.11 Ngulia
29.10 Nairobi
02.11 Ngulia
14.09 Mara GR
06.11 Nairobi
02.11 Ngulia
29.10 Nairobi
01.11 Ngulia
18.10 Athi River
01.11 Ngulia
02.11 Ngulia
01.11 Ngulia
19.09 Athi River
01.11 Ngulia
01.11 Ngulia and
Voi
132 East African Bird Report 1986
List of Observers
F. Alexander M. Hemphill
G.C. Backhurst P. Hemphill
L.A. Bennun S. Hemphill
Z. Bhatia V. Holmgren
B. Boothroyd A.D. Lewis
A.E. Butterworth D. Moyer
J.M. Clark F. Ng’weno
M.A.C. Coverdale D.J. Pearson
J.R.P. Cumberlege D.K. Richards
J. Darlington A. Root
H.A. Gaasbeek C. Ryall
J. Falkland P.G. Schrijvershof
B.W. Finch T. Stevenson
L.D.C. Fishpool D.A. Turner
C.M. Gichuki D.E. Wolf
B. Gregory P. Wooton
C. Griffiths
EAST AFRICAN RARE BIRDS COMMITTEE
During 1987 the committee was asked to adjudicate on a number of records. The
following were accepted:
Diomedea cauta Shy Albatross: 1, Mtwara Fish Market, southern Tanzania,
7 Sep 1985 (D. and C. Watt).
Accipiter nisus Eurasian Sparrowhawk: 1, Kabete 18 Jan 86 (DJP).
Anthropoides virgo Demoiselle Crane: 8 adults and 1 immature, Ngomeni,
near Malindi, 15 Jan 86 (L.A.S. Grumbley et al.).
Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting: 1, Taita Hills Lodge, 7 Jan 86 (DAZ).
The following records were not accepted:
Botaurus stellaris Bittern: singles Amboseli NP 12 Dec 86 and Mara GR 24
Dec 86.
Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck: 1 Laikipia plateau 20 Dec 86.
Locustella naevia Grasshopper Warbler: 1 Kisumu 16 Nov 85.
The members of the Rare Birds Committee are:
J.S. Ash R.J. Dowsett
B.W. Finch D. Fisher
S.C. Madge G. Nikolaus
D.J. Pearson A.J. Prater
J.C. Sinclair T. Stevenson
D.A. Turner D.A. Zimmerman
East African Bird Report 1986 133
RINGING AND MIGRATION AT NGULIA, TSAVO, AUTUMN 1986
G.C. Backhurst and D.J. Pearson
Twenty-seven nights, in two periods, from 1 November to 11 December, were
spent at Ngulia Safari Lodge studying the southward migration. A total of 6161
Palaearctic birds was caught and ringed on 23 of these dates—the fifth highest
total in 18 years of cover. As mentioned in the 1985 report (Backhurst & Pearson
1987) we used our own 1 kW light to augment those of the Lodge.
The season was marked by some of the wettest weather experienced in Tsavo
for many years. On some nights torrential rain prevented any netting while on
other occasions, torrential rain in the day was followed by aclear mist-free night.
The Lodge was cut off from the rest of the park on 7 December because of
impassable roads.
Netting at Ngulia in the 1970s was frequently constrained by the presence
of large mammals—elephant Loxodonta africana, rhino Diceros bicornis, buffalo
Syncerus caffer and sometimes lions Panthera leo. In recent years the rhino has
all but disappeared as a visitor to the Lodge and elephant and buffalo numbers
have been much lower during the periods when netting has taken place. This
year the Lodge had constructed a concrete and stone platform on which meat was
put every evening at about 18:00 to attract leopards Panthera pardus. This has
proved to be highly successful and justifiably popular with the tourists. In
addition to leopards, honey badgers Mellivora capensis (up to four together),
striped hyaena Hyaena hyaena and spotted hyaena Crocuta crocuta have also
been seen eating the meat. Even though the structure was built in the middle of
the night net ride, it is doubtful if it had much effect on the number of birds
caught: usually the meat had been eaten before netting began.
There had been some heavy rain and mist on the night of 30/31 October just
before the first visit, and there were reports of “many birds” down on that night.
The night of 31 October—1 November was completely clear but there was still a
scattering of small migrants in the almost leafless bush to the south of the Lodge
after dawn and these had presumably remained from the fall of 24 h before.
During the early November visit, from 1st to 9th, there was little prolonged
mist at night and resulting catches were rather small. Animmaculate male Grey
Wagtail Motacilla cinerea outside the staff village on 1st and 2nd was new for the
Lodge and a Red-throated Pipit! caught there on 1st was the first to be ringed at
Ngulia although the species has been recorded in ones and twos in most years.
All the main species were caught in this first week with Sprosser (327 ringed)
leading Whitethroat (213) and Marsh Warbler (134).
The second visit of 16 nights was from 24 November through to 10 December
and reasonable falls occurred on all but two of these nights. Whitethroats were
just in the majority (1844 ringed) followed by Marsh Warbler (1723) and
Sprosser (1054) with the traditional fourth species, the River Warbler, coming
in rather later than usual at 192.
Overall, the ‘minor species’ varied widely in numbers. Ten Eurasian Rollers
caught was well above average as were the 127 Iranias and 62 Barred Warblers.
Torrential rain at night on 6/7 December and then again throughout the day of
7th severely curtailed netting activity but the catch was notable in including all
1Scientific names are given in Table 1
134 East African Bird Report 1986
Table 1 Numbers of Palaearctic night migrants ringed at Ngulia Safari Lodge
between October and February in the years 1969-1987*
Species 1986/7* %* Total 1969—
total 1987*
Eurasian Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus 6 34 250
Eurasian Roller Coracias garrulus 10 304 48
Eurasian Swallow Hirundo rustica 1 10 136
Rufous Bush Chat Cercotrichas galactotes 34 63 804
Irania Irania gutturalis N27 131 1497
Sprosser Luscinia luscinia 1381 135 15755
Nightingale L. megarhynchos 30 83 «634
Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis 9 111 123
Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina 3 56 78
Northern Wheatear O. oenanthe 8 110 110
Pied Wheatear O. pleschanka 11 © 2S SBI 48
Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus 4 181 35
Basra Reed Warbler A. griseldis~ 57 123 709
Marsh Warbler A. palustris 1857 98 28452
Sedge Warbler A. schoenobaenus 5 — 84
Reed Warbler A. scirpaceus 2 42 70
Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina 1 -— 4
Upcher’s Warbler H. languida 15 74 303
Olive-tree Warbler H. olivetorum 10 45 322
Olivaceous Warbler H. pallida 30 122 377
River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis 202 105 2921
Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 72 77 1384
Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla 1 — 49
Garden Warbler S. borin 16 46 506
Whitethroat S. communis 2060 142 22559
Barred Warbler S. nisoria 62 168 585
Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata 35 75 690
Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus 1 — 1
Tree Pipit A. trivialis 3 — 23
Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio 64 114 852
Red-tailed Shrike L. isabellinus 43 93 700
Number of species 31 — 31
Total ringed 6161 80009
* 1986/87 season—but no ringing done in January or February 1987
** The autumn 1986 total expressed as a percentage of the mean of the 14 years
1972/73 to 1985/86 for each species.
Totals of Palaearctic species ringed in previous autumn seasons but not in this
Continued opposite
East African Bird Report 1986 135
five Palaearctic Acrocephalus species, including four Great Reed Warblers and
also an Icterine—only the fourth for the site.
Only one Palaearctic bird ringed at Ngulia in a previous season was
retrapped this year: a Red-tailed Shrike originally ringed on 4 December 1983
was retrapped for the second and third times on 2 and 7 December 1986; it had
been previously retrapped on 12 December 1985. A local breeding species, the
Striped Swallow Hirundo abyssinica ringed as an adult on 15 December 1980
was retrapped on 3 December this year.
Afrotropical birds judged to have been attracted to the lights were, as always,
rather few. Six Somali Golden-breasted Buntings Emberiza poliopleura caught
just after dawn on 4 December were noteworthy, as was a Gambaga Flycatcher
Muscicapa gambagae at night on 25 November and an example of the northern
race lorti of the Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata at night on 10 Decem-
ber—the first record of this subspecies for Ngulia.
Acknowledgements
As always, we are most grateful to the Warden of Tsavo National Park (West) for
allowing us to ring birds in the park and to the management of Ngulia Safari
Lodge and African Tours and Hotels Ltd. for assistance with accomodation and
help in other ways. The Ngulia Ringing Group this year, in addition to the
authors, comprised Anna Forbes-Watson (18 nights), Adan Alio (2), Daphne
Backhurst (4), Neil Baker (1), Leon Bennun (3), Liz Boswell (1), Geoff Carr (3),
Miles Coverdale (1), Ron Darwent (3), Alec Forbes-Watson (1), Valde Holmgren
(2), Judy Katz (1), Roselie Osborn (2), Maggie Pearson (4), Tony Potterton (4),
Peter Squelch (4) and Oscar Wambugua (2). Thanks to all these people for
making a success of a season that was very often characterized by severe and
unpleasant weather conditions.
Reference
Backuurst, G.C. & Pearson, D.J. 1987. Ringing and migration at Ngulia, Tsavo,
autumn 1985. Scopus 9: 159-162.
Table 1 continued
year are as follows: Little Bittern Ixobrychus m. minutus 4, Eleonora’s Falcon
Falco eleonorae 1, Corncrake Crex crex 7, Spotted Crake Porzana porzana 1,
Great Snipe Gallinago media 1, Eurasian Cuckoo Cuculus canorus 2, Lesser
Cuckoo C. poliocephalus 1, Eurasian Scops Owl Otus scops 5, Sand Martin
Riparia riparia 6, Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus 13, Redstart Phoenicurus
phoenicurus 3, Whinchat Saxicola rubetra 2, Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscini-
oides 1, Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix 2, Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava
3, hybrid Red-backed/Red-tailed Shrike Lanius collurio x isabellinus 9.
From December 1969 a total of 80 070 Palaearctic night-migrating birds of
46 species has been ringed at Ngulia during southward passage between Octo-
ber and February.
136 East African Bird Report 1986
Correction
In the report for the 1985/86 season (Scopus 9: 159-162) there was a mistake in
Table 1. The second footnote should have read as follows:
“** The autumn 1985 total expressed as a percentage of the mean of the
13 years 1972/73 to 1984/85 for each species.” GCB is sorry for this
mistake.
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi and D.J. Pearson, Department of Bio-
chemistry, University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi, Kenya
Scopus 10 (5): 133-136, April 1988
East African Bird Report 1986 137
INDEX TO AUTHORS
Archer, A.L. Southern Tana River observations 107
Backhurst, G.C. Reviews 60, 116
Backhurst, G.C. and Pearson, D.J. Ringing and migration at Ngulia,
Tsavo, autumn 1986 133
Becker, C. Dustin. Palaearctic migrants observed in the Omo River
valley, SW Ethiopia, during October-November 1984 Dill
Bennun, L.A. Montane birds of the Bwindi (Impenetrable) Forest 87
Bennun, L.A. The composition of Bwindi Forest bird parties 108
Bennun, L.A., Gichuki, C., Darlington, J. and Ng’weno, F. The avifauna
of Ol Doinyo Orok, a forest island: initial findings 83
Boothroyd, Bernard. A second record of Jouanin’s Petrel Bulweria fallax
from Kenya 28
Britton, P.L. Letter 114
Britton, P.L. and Britton, H.A. Moult schedules of some pycnonotids and
ploceids in coastal Kenya 103
Clancey, P.A. Taxonomic notes on some birds from East Africa 33
Clarke, G. Notes on the Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea in NW Somalia 47
Clarke, G. A weaver roost at Hargeisa, Somalia 52
Dowsett-Lemaire, Frangoise. Vocal variations in two forest apalises of
eastern Africa, Apalis (porphyrolaema) chapini and A. melanocephala 92
Fuggles-Couchman, N.R. Breeding records of some Tanzanian birds 20
Fuggles-Couchman, N.R. Birds visiting a recently filled damin Tanzania 55
Gwinner, G. Sting-removal from bees by White-eyed Slaty Flycatchers
Melaenornis chocolatina 51
Hillman, Jesse C. and Sheila M. Notes on some unusual birds of the
Bangangai area, south west Sudan 29
Horne, Jennifer F.M. and Short, Lester L. Roosting behaviour of Red-faced
Crombec 49
Lewis, Adrian D. Letter 60
Mann, Clive F. Ringed birds in Kakamega Forest
(Request for Information) 19
Moyer, D.C. and Stjernstedt, R. A new bird for East Africa and
extensions of range of some species for southwest Tanzania 99
Pearson, D.J. Sightings of Long-toed Stints Calidris subminuta
at Naivasha 41
Pearson, D.J. A levant Sparrowhawk specimen from Uganda 107
Pearson, D.J. General Review 17,
Pearson, D.J. and Turner, D.A. The less common Palaearctic migrant
birds of Uganda 61
Pomeroy, D.E. The Marabou in Kenya 1
138 East African Bird Report 1986
Rutledge, Brian A. Mackinder’s Eagle Owl feeding on bats 49
Schiemann, Heinrich. Red-necked Phalaropes Phalaropus lobatus off the
coast of Somalia and Kenya 42
Schulz, Holger. Threats to the White Stork on migration
(Request for Information) 9
Tyler, Stephanie J. and Ormerod, S.J. Interactions between resident
and migratory wagtails Motacilla spp. in Ethiopia—an ecological
conundrum 10
Tyzack, Susan M. and Volcere, O. The Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii
arideensis on Aride Island Seychelles: notes on the 1984 season 45
Zimmerman, Dale A. A twenty-year-old greenbul from western Kernya 111
Zimmerman, Dale A. The Yellow-streaked Greenbul in Kenya 112
East African Bird Report 1986
139
INDEX TO SCIENTIFIC NAMES
Volume 10, 1-5
Accipiter badius 107
Accipiter brevipes 63, 107
Accipiter minullus 120
Accipiter nisus 63, 117, 127, 132
Accipiter ovampensis 120
Accipiter rufiventris 84, 120
Acrocephalus arundinaceus 77, 117,
129, 131, 134, 135
Acrocephalus gracilorostris 23
Acrocephalus griseldis 72, 129, 131,
134
Acrocephalus palustris 27, 72, 129,
131, 133, 134
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus 77, 117,
129, 131, 134
Acrocephalus scirpaceus 77, 117,
129, 131, 134
Actitis hypoleucos 27, 57, 76
Alcippe abyssinica 22, 100, 109
Alethe diademata 130
Alethe poliocephala 100
Alopochen aegyptiaca 56, 57
Anas acuta 62, 126
Anas clypeata 62, 126
Anas crecca 62, 63, 127
Anas erythrorynchus 56, 57
Anas hottentota 56, 57
Anas penelope 63, 127
Anas sparsa 11, 84
Andropadus curvirostris 90, 111
Andropadus gracilirostris 108
Andropadus importunus 23, 103, 104
Andropadus latirostris 83, 100
Andropadus masukuensis 90
Andropadus milanjensis 83, 85, 124
Andropadus virens 100
Anomalospiza imberbis 101, 126
Anthreptes collaris 84
Anthropoides virgo 117, 127, 132
Anthus campestris 74
Anthus cervinus 14, 74, 131, 133,
134
Anthus lineiventris 24
Anthus novaeseelandiae 14
Anthus similis 125
Anthus trivialis 78, 131, 134
Apalis alticola 23, 101
Apalis binotata 88, 109
Apalis chapini 92-98
Apalis cinerea 110
Apalis jacksoni 88, 90
Apalis melanocephala 92-98, 125
Apalis porphyrolaema 88, 92-98,
109, 110
Apalis ruwenzori 88
Apaloderma narina 87
Aplopelia larvata 83
Apus apus 77
Apus berliozi 123
Apus horus 123
Apus melba 70
Apus pallidus 70
Aquila clanga 27, 63
Aquila heliaca 127
Aquila nipalensis 63, 127
Aquila pomarina 27, 63, 64, 127
Aquila rapax 27, 84
Aquila verreauxi 120
Ardea melanocephala 2, 57
Ardeola idae 119
Arenaria interpres 69, 128
Aviceda cuculoides 120
Aythya ferina 63
Aythya fuligula 63, 127
Aythya nyroca 63, 127
Balearica pavonina 56—58
Bathmocercus cerviniventris 88
Batis diops 89, 109
Batis mixta 23
Bleda eximia 130
Botaurus stellaris 132
Bradypterus barratti 101
Bradypterus graueri 88
Bubo capensis mackinderi 49, 122
Buccanodon whytii 33, 114, 124
Bulweria bulwerii 29
140 East African Bird Report 1986
Bulweria fallax 28, 29
Burhinus oedicnemus 65, 66, 128
Butastur rufipennis 120
Buteo buteo 64, 76
Buteo rufinus 27, 64
Buteo tachardus 84
Bycanistes brevis 60, 84
Bycanistes subcylindricus 90
Bycanistes fistulator 30, 31
Calidris alba 68, 128
Calidris alpina 68
Calidris ferruginea 41, 76
Calidris minuta 27, 41, 76
Calidris subminuta 41, 42, 128
Calidris temminckii 27, 68
Camaroptera brachyura 84
Caprimulgus clarus 123
Caprimulgus donaldsoni 123
Caprimulgus europaeus 70, 129, 134
Caprimulgus fraenatus 123
Caprimulgus inornatus 123
Caprimulgus natalensis 123
Caprimulgus nubicus 123
Caprimulgus poliocephalus 84, 99
Centropus grillii 122
Cercococcyx montanus 122
Cercomela familiaris 125
Cercotrichas barbata 34, 100
Cercotrichas galactotes 71, 131, 134
Cercotrichas quadrivirgata 34—36,
114
Charadrius alexandrinus 66, 127
Charadrius asiaticus 76
Charadrius dubius 66, 127
Charadrius hiaticula 76
Charadrius leschenaultii 66, 127
Charadrius marginatus 121
Charadrius mongolus 66, 128
Charadrius pallidus 121
Charadrius pecuarius 56—58
Charadrius tricollaris 56, 57
Chelictinia riocourii 120
Chlidonias leucopterus 76
Chlorocichla flavicollis 100, 124
Chloropeta gracilirostris 125
Chloropeta similis 23
Ciccaba woodfordii 84
Cichladusa arquata 20, 23
Ciconia abdimii 119
Ciconia ciconia 9, 75, 126
Ciconia episcopus 119
Ciconia nigra 31, 62, 84, 126
Cinnyricinclus leucogaster 126
Cinnyricinclus sharpii 84, 125
Circaetus fasciolatus 120
Circaetus gallicus 64
Circus aeruginosus 75, 127
Circus macrourus 75
Circus pygargus 76
Cisticola aberrans 125
Cisticola fulvicapilla 101
Cisticola pipiens 101
Cisticola woosnami 125
Clamator glandarius 122
Clamator jacobinus 122
Clamator levaillantii 122
Clytospiza monteiri 36, 114
Colius striatus 108
Columba albinucha 30
Columba arquatrix 31, 84
Columba delegorguei 84
Columba guinea 47, 48
Columba iriditorques 30
Coracias abyssinicus 123
Coracias abyssinicus x caudata 123
Coracias caudata 123, 135
Coracias garrulus 70, 129, 131, 133,
134
Coracias naevia 123
Corvus albicollis 84
Corvus frugilegus 111
Corvus rhipidurus 124
Cossypha semirufa 83
Coturnix chinensis 121
Coturnix coturnix 21, 65
Crex crex 65, 127, 135
Crex egregia 121
Cryptospiza reichenovii 25, 36, 37,
114
Cryptospiza salvadorii 83
Cuculus canorus 77, 131, 135
Cuculus clamosus 84, 122
Cuculus gularis 122
Cuculus poliocephalus 135
Cuculus solitarius 84
Cursorius cursor 122
Delichon urbica 77, 131
Denropicos fuscescens 22
Dicrurus adsimilis 84, 87, 90, 109,
110
Dicrurus ludwigii 110
Diomedea cauta 117, 119, 130, 132
Diomedea melanophrys 117, 119
Dryochiloides bocagei 100
Dryochiloides poliopterus 88, 90
Dryoscopus cubla 84
Drypscopus gambensis 89
Drypscopus pringlii 125
Egretta alba 57
Egretta ardesiaca 119
Egretta garzetta 57
Emberiza flaviventris 38, 39
Emberiza hortulana 14, 130, 132
Emberiza poliopleura 135
Emberiza striolata 126
Eremomela scotops 110
Euplectes afer 25
Euplectes ardens 32
Euplectes diadematus 126
Euplectes gierowii 32
Euplectes hordeaceus 25
Euplectes nigroventris 25, 103, 105
Eurystomus glaucurus 123
Falco alopex 120
Falco amurensis 64, 127
Falco biarmicus 54
Falco chicquera 120
Falco concolor 65, 127
Falco cuvieri 120
Falco eleonorae 65, 127, 135
Falco naumanni 65
Falco peregrinus 54
Falco rupicoloides 120
Falco subbuteo 76
Falco tinnunculus 76
Falco vespertinus 65
Ficedula albicollis 74, 75, 130
Ficedula hypoleuca 75
Ficedula spp. 130
Francolinus psilolaemus 121
Fregata ariel 130
East African Bird Report 1986 141
Fulica cristata 21
Gallinago gallinago 76
Gallinago media 67, 128
Gelochelidon nilotica 76
Glareola nordmanni 69
Gorsachius leuconotus 117, 119
Guttera pucherani 121
Gypohierax angolensis 120
Haematopus ostralegus 66, 127
Hieraaetus pennatus 64, 127
Himantopus himantopus 56, 57
Hippolais icterina 72, 129, 134, 135
Hippolais languida 73, 129, 131, 134
Hippolais olivetorum 129, 131, 134
Hippolais pallida 77, 131, 134
Hirundo abyssinica 135
Hirundo fuligula 84
Hirundo rustica 77, 134
Hyliota flavigaster 110, 125
Hypargos niveoguttatus 37, 38
Hypochera purpurascens 126
Indicator exilis 124
Indicator meliphilus 12
Irania gutturalis 129, 131, 134
Ixobrychus minutus 61, 62, 119, 126,
131, 134
Ixobrychus sturmii 108, 119
Ixonotus guttatus 130
Jynx torquilla 70, 71
Kaupifalco monogrammicus 120
Lagonosticta rara 126
Laniarius ferrugineus 84
Lanius cabanisi 24
Lanius collurio 78, 131, 134
Lanius collurio x isabellinus 135
Lanius isabellinus 78, 130, 131, 134,
135
Lanius minor 78, 131
Lanius nubicus 130
Lanius senator 75
Lanius spp. 117
Larus argentatus 69
Larus fuscus 76
Larus genei 128
Larus ichthyaetus 69, 128
Larus ridibundus 69
Leptoptilos crumeniferus 1-9, 120
142 East African Bird Report 1986
Limicola falcinellus 68, 128
Limnocorax flavirostris 56-58
Limosa lapponica 68, 128
Limosa limosa 68, 117, 118, 128
Linurgus olivaceus 25, 84, 85, 126
Locustella fluviatilis 73, 129
Locustella luscinioides 135
Locustella naevia 132
Luscinia luscinia 27, 71, 129, 131,
133, 134
Luscinia megarhynchos 27, 71, 129,
131, 134
Lybius bidentatus 124
Lybius frontatus 124
Lybius minor 124
Lybius torquatus 22
Lymnocryptes minimus 67, 68, 128
Macheiramphus alcinus 120
Macronyx ameliae 101
Macronyx sharpei 125
Macrosphenus kretschmeri 23
Malaconotus blanchoti 89
Malaconotus lagdeni 130
Malaconotus multicolor 101
Malimbus erythrogaster 31
Malimbus rubricollis 89, 90
Mandingoa nitidula 32, 101, 126
Melaenornis ardesiaca 88
Melaenornis chocolatina 51, 84
Melierax gabar 54
Merops apiaster 27, 77,131
Merops boehmi 21
Merops hirundineus 21, 22
Merops nubicus 123
Merops oreobates 90
Merops persicus 31, 77
Mesopicos elliotii 87
Mirafra angolensis 100
Mirafra erythropygia 31
Mirafra gilletti 130
Mirafra pulpa 124
Monticola rufocinerea 125
Monticola saxatilis 71, 72, 131, 134
Motacilla aguimp 10, 11, 14, 84
Motacilla alba 10, 13, 14, 27, 74, 130
Motacilla cinerea 10, 12-16, 27, 74,
130, 131, 133
Motacilla clara 10-16, 84
Motacilla flava 10, 13, 14, 78, 131,
135
Muscicapa adusta 84, 101
Muscicapa gambagae 125, 135
-Muscicapa lendu 125
Muscicapa striata 78, 131, 134
Myioparus plumbeus 125
Neafrapus boehmi 123
Nectarinia habessinica 126
Nectarinia ludovicensis 89
Nectarinia moreaui 20, 24
Nectarinia olivacea 83
Nectarinia preussi 90
Nectarinia venusta 84
Nectarinia verticalis 89
Neotis denhami 121
Nesocharis ansorgei 130
Netta erythrophthalma 56, 57
Nettapus auritus 120
Numenius arquata 66, 67
Numenius phaeopus 66, 128
Oena capensis 21
Oenanthe bottae 125
Oenanthe isabellina 77, 131, 134
Oenanthe oenanthe 77, 131, 134
Oenanthe pleschanka 72, 131, 134
Oriolus brachyrhynchus 32
Oriolus oriolus 71, 135
Ortygospiza atricollis 56, 58
Ortygospiza locustella 126
Otus leucotis 123
Otus scops 70, 135
Oxyura maccoa 20
Parus albiventris 109, 110
Parus fasciiventer 109, 110
Parus funereus 87, 90, 109, 110
Parus leucomelas 110
Parus niger 109, 110
Parus rufiventris 22
Passer castanopterus 126
Pernis apivorus 64, 127
Phaethon lepturus 119
Phalaropus lobatus 42-44, 69, 128
Philomachus pugnax 41, 76
Phoeniconaias minor 117
Phoenicopterus ruber 120
Phoeniculus aterrimus 31
Phoeniculus bollei 109, 110
Phoeniculus granti 124
Phoenicurus phoenicurus 72, 135
Phyllastrephus cabanisi 100
Phyllastrephus flavostriatus 100,
109, 112
Phyllastrephus placidus 83, 90
Phyllastrephus xavieri 130
Phylloscopus collybita 73, 129
Phylloscopus laetus 113
Phylloscopus laurae 101
Phylloscopus sibilatrix 73, 74, 129,
135
Phylloscopus trochilus 27, 73, 78, 84,
131,134
Picoides obsoletus 124
Platalea leucorodia 62
Plectopterus gambensis 56-58
Plocepasser mahali 38, 115
Ploceus alienus 89, 109
Ploceus baglafecht 84
Ploceus bicolor 24, 60
Ploceus bojeri 103, 105
Ploceus galbula 53, 54
Ploceus insignis 60
Ploceus intermedius 53, 54
Ploceus jacksoni 25
Ploceus nigricollis 103, 105
Ploceus ocularis 84, 103, 105
Ploceus rubiginosus 53, 54
Ploceus taeniopterus 31
Ploceus tricolor 31
Ploceus velatus 53, 54
Pluvialis dominica 108, 128
Pluvialis squatarola 66, 108, 128
Podica senegalensis 121
Podiceps nigricollis 20, 119
Pogoniulus chrysoconus 33, 34, 114
Pogonocichla stellata 83, 85, 100
Poicephalus gulielmi 87
Porphryio alleni 121
Porzana parva 65
Porzana porzana 65, 127, 135
Prionops retzii 110, 125
Prionops scopifrons 110
Psalidoprocne albiceps 84
East African Bird Report 1986 143
Psalidoprocne pristoptera 84
Pterocles decoratus 57, 58
Pterocles exustus 58
Pterocles gutturalis 56, 58
Pterocles lichtensteinii 122
Pterodroma arminjoniana 29
Pterodroma aterrima 29
Ptilopachus petrosus 121
Ptilostomus afer 124
Puffinus pacificus 29
Pycnonotus barbatus 50, 103, 105
Pycnonotus plumosus 111
Quelea quelea 52-55
Remiz caroli 124
Riparia riparia 77, 131
Rostratula benghalensis 21, 121
Rynchops flavirostris 122
Sarkidiornis melanotos 20, 21, 56, 57
Sarothrura elegans 121
Sarothrura rufa 121
Saxicola rubetra 77, 135
Schoutedenapus myoptilus 123
Scotopelia peli 123
Serinus burtoni 108
Serinus canicollis 25, 26
Serinus mennelli 101
Serinus striolatus 108
Sheppardia cyornithopsis 130
Smithornis capensis 22
Speculipastor bicolor 126
Spreo superbus 54
Stephanoaetus coronatus 120
Stercorarius pomarinus 128
Sterna dougallii 45-47
Sterna fuscata 46, 122
Sterna hirundo 70
Sterna repressa 122
Sterna sandvicensis 128
Streptopelia decipiens 21
Streptopelia turtur 70
Sturnus vulgaris 111
Sula dactylatra 119
Sylvia atricapilla 77, 84, 131, 134
Sylvia borin 77, 84, 131, 134
Sylvia communis 73, 130, 131, 133,
134
Sylvia nisoria 73, 130, 131, 133, 134
144 East African Bird Report 1986
Sylvietta rufescens 125
Sylvietta whytii 49-51
Tachybaptus ruficollis 56-58
Tadorna ferruginea 132
Tauraco hartlaubi 84
Tauraco leucolophus 122
Tauraco porphryreolophus 21
Tchagra minuta 24
Terpsiphone viridis 84
Tockus alboterminatus 22
Tockus hartlaubi 31
Tockus hemprichii 124
Treron australis 30
Tricastoma albipectus 130
Tricastoma pyrrhopterum 84
Trichastoma rufipennis 83-85, 124
Tringa erythropus 67, 128
Tringa glareola 27, 56, 57, 76
Tringa nebularia 76
Tringa ochropus 76
Tringa stagnatilis 27, 56, 57, 76
Tringa totanus 57, 67
Trochocercus albiventris 89, 130
Trochocercus albonotatus 23, 24, 89
Trochocercus cyanomelas 20, 24
Trochocercus nigromitratus 89
Turdoides hindei 124
Turdus abyssinicus 84
Turdus libonyanus 23
Turdus merula 111
Turdus piaggiae 32
Turdus fischeri 125
Turtur tympanistria 84
Tyto alba 46
Upupa epops 70, 129
Urotriorchis macrourus 30
Vanellus armatus 57
Vanellus lugubris 121
Vanellus superciliosus 117, 121
Vidua interjecta 32
Vidua obtusa 126
Xenus cinereus 67, 128
Zosterops abyssinica 110
Zosterops poliogastra 84, 85
Zosterops senegalensis 109, 110
form used in this issue. Names of periodicals must be given in full and, in the case
of books, the town of publication and the publisher should be given. A number of
works which are cited frequently should not be listed under ‘References’; the name(s)
of the author(s) and date(s) of the publication should be given in the text in the
normal way.
Authors of ‘papers’ over ten pages in length receive five copies of their
contribution free of charge. Extra copies, which will be supplied at cost, must be
ordered when the MS is submitted. All contributions should be sent to the Editor,
G.C. Backhurst, Box 24702, Nairobi, Kenya; they will be acknowledged.
Works which should not be listed under ‘References’
BACKHURST, G.C., BRITTON, P.L. & MANN, C.F. 1973. The less common
Palaearctic migrant birds of Kenya and Tanzania. Journal of the East Africa Natural
History Society and National Museum. 140: 1-38, = Backhurst et al. 1973.
BENSON, C.W., BROOKE, R.K., DOWSETT, R.J., & IRWIN, M.P.S. 1971.
The birds of Zambia. London: Collins, = Benson et ai. 1971.
BRITTON, P.L. (ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa. Nairobi: EANHS, = Britton 1980.
- BROWN, L.H. & BRITTON, P.L. 1980. The breeding seasons of East African birds.
Nairobi: EANHS, = Brown & Britton 1980.
BROWN, L.H., URBAN, E.K. & NEWMAN, K. 1982. The birds of Africa, Vol. I.
London and New York: Academic Press, = Brown et al. 1982.
HALL, B.P. & MOREAU, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African passerine
birds. London: British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Hall & Moreau 1970.
JACKSON, FJ. 1938. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate, 3
vols. London: Gurney & Jackson, = Jackson 1938.
MACKWORTH-PRAED, C.W. & GRANT, C.H.B. 1957 and 1960. African handbook of
birds. Series I, vols 1 and 2; Birds of eastern and north eastern Africa, 2nd
edition. London: Longmans Green & Co., = Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1957
and/or 1960.
MOREAU, R.E. 1966. The bird faunas of Africa and its islands. London: Academic
Press, = Moreau 1966.
MOREAU, R.E. 1972. The Palaearctic-African bird migration systems. London:
Academic Press, = Moreau 1972.
SNOW, D.W. (ed.) 1978. An atlas of speciation in African non-passerine birds.
London: British Museum (Nat. Hist.), = Snow 1978.
URBAN, E.K., FRY, C.H. & KEITH, S. 1986. The birds of Africa, Vol. II. London:
Academic Press, = Urban et al. 1986.
East African Bird Report
This normally forms the fifth issue of Scopus and each report covers one calendar
year and relates just to the birds of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Records of Afro-
tropical and Oceanic birds should be sent to D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi;
Palaearctic bird records should be sent to Dr D.J. Pearson, Department of Bio-
chemistry, University of Nairobi, Box 30197, Nairobi. Records should be sent in
early in the new year to ensure the speedy production of the Report. Sightings of rare
birds may be telephoned through to any OSC member (numbers inside the front
cover) in the hope that the bird(s) may be seen by others. Criteria covering the sub-
mission of Bird Report records are given in Scopus Supplement, June 1982, and
copies may be obtained from D.A. Turner. Records of rare birds are vetted by the
independent and internationally-based East African Rarities Committee.
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Contents
Scopus 10 (5) April 1988
D.J. Pearson. General Review
Species report
Afrotropical and Oceanic species
Palaearctic species
Back Records
First and last dates of some Palaearctic landbirds
List of observers
East African Rare Birds Committee
G.C. Backhurst and D.J. Pearson. Ringing and migration at Ngulia,
Tsavo, autumn 1986
Index to authors
Index to scientific names
Q 66 Sl XL) ib? t|
92/94 198115
117
118
119
126
130
131
132
132
133
137
139
Published by the Ornithological Sub-Committee of the EANHS, Box 48019, Nairobi,
Kenya and printed by AMREF, Wilson Airport, Box 30125, Nairobi
Sa
HECKMAN
Bern DE RY, TAN: GC.
Bound-To-Piease*
JAN 00
N. MANCHESTER, INDIANA 46962
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